...The Valentine's Day Gift that Every Woman Entrepreneur Needs

Calling all gentlemen:

Valentine's Day is approaching! Well, to be exact, it's just three weeks and three days away. Have you considered what that perfect gift for the special lady in your life will be? Are you still hashing over what to get that will sweep her off her feet? Did you promise to top last year's gift? Is she an entrepreneur?

If so, I'm suggesting that you register her for the 2014 B4 Tour hosted by Rhonda Nails of Project P.U.S.H. The virtual conference's focus is Re-Branding, Re-Booting, and Re-Building your business. Show your "Boss Chick" that you're invested in her business just as much as she is and that you want her to thrive and succeed; show her that you care and believe in her. Give her the loving gift of wealthy information from awesome speakers such as:

LaShanda Henry: Turning Browsers Into Buyers: Building a Website that Works for You

Lucille Divine: Let's Get Social!

Kemberli Stephenson: Essential Financial Management Habits for a Healthy Business

Katherine Waddell: Profitable Radio Marketing Exposed: Understanding What Needs to Be Said

Veronica Drake: How to Create an Opt-In Form that Grabs Reader's Attention and Builds Lists With Ease

Lisa Ryan: Grategize Your Business! Three Keys to Customer Engagement, Acquisition, and Retention

Rhonda Nails: From Bankruptcy to Billionaire: The Process of Re-Branding, Re-Booting, and Re-Building Your Business



Gentlemen, now all you have to do is click here to get your woman entrepreneur registered for the 2014 B4 Tour!

*The first three, (3), gentlemen to register their woman entrepreneur by February 01, 2014 will receive an exclusive gift poem for your special lady!

...of Revitalize 2014

Well it’s the day after Christmas and someone maybe standing in a long line to return that “perfect” gift for the special lady in their life. Perhaps while standing in line they're thinking what they should get as a replacement. Take a moment and really think about what she needs; especially if she's an entrepreneur. Get her registered for the Revitalize 2014: Women's Conference coming in April 2014 to Norfolk, Virginia! The conference’s theme is Empowering Women With the Tools to Relate, Create, and Elevate. Attendees can expect to, "Get Clarity of Purpose- Easy Action Steps- Life and Business Mentoring

This event is hosted by the Message Expansion Partners and Motivational speaker, Lakeisha McKnight, will be serving as Mistress of Ceremonies and has a dynamic panel of speakers to include:

Vincent K. Harris, Financial Expert

Joan Wilson, Product Creation Expert

Maricia Sherman, Confidence Expert

Melanie Bonita, Marketing Expert

Melissa Turner, Peak Performance Expert

Nellie Wosu, Dress Attire Expert

Rhonda Nails, Business Growth Expert

Renee Sunday M.D., Purpose and Passion Expert

Stevii Aisha Mills, Life Balance Expert

Dawgelen "Dr. Dawj" Sangster, Authenticity Expert

Register here: http://bit.ly/18yqkbU

Good Life Girlfriends

I really enjoy watching the Centric channel on cable. The shows are what I grew up with and can relate to in some ways now. For example, I was watching reruns of "Girlfriends" and it reminded me of 4 special ladies in my life; my girlfriends, Anissa Barbie, Katrina M. Harrell, LaShanda Henry, and Rhonda Nails. Just like the characters on "Girlfriends" were all from different backgrounds and had different occupations but seemed to compliment one another, we too are the same. Each of us are from different areas originally but now live in North Carolina and have different occupations but we pull them together to make things greater than we imaged come to fruition.

Katrina M. Harrell and I first connected on Facebook and then were able to meet one one another in real life at LaShanda Henry's first Sista Sense Social in September of 2011. Then I met Anissa Barbie and Rhonda Nails at LaShanda's second Sista Sense Social this past February. We've bonded over business and have come to trust each other beyond the "professional" realm and have decided that we get together to get it together by living the good life!

We, the Good Life Girlfriends, are getting together to help you and your girlfriends get it together with a Women's Day Celebration on December 01, 2012, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. in Raleigh, North Carolina at the Crabtree Valley Mall Community Center. Early bird tickets sold out in less than 24 hours! However, there's still four bring a friend options available and regular registration.

Stay connected with my girlfriends and I on our Good Life Girlfriends fan page

The Steve Harvey Morning Show

This morning on the The Steve Harvey Show, Shirley Strawberry, Carla, and Nephew Tommy were off which meant that Steve Harvey was alone on the show. He referred to it as being, "Loose in the booth!" The show was great! Mr. Steve Harvey did well with sharing his story of moving out of his parent's home on the 84th day of his 90 day provision, the back to back song choices, how his wife brought him closer to God, and best of all just having fun. I loved it!

Today Steve Harvey taught me that it's okay to deviate from the schedule and have fun; you don't have to do what's expected all the time. The Steve Harvey Morning Show is always inspiring and entertaining to me but I must say that this morning I am more inspired than I've ever been. Congratulations Mr. Harvey.

If you don't listen to The Steve Harvey Morning Show I encourage you to find out what station it's on in your area and tune in.

Thank You's and Event Announcement

Thank you to September's advertisers: Author Rhonda Weston, The Smell Goods Lady, Itiel McVay, and The Success Instigator, Rhonda Nails. It's been awesome promoting your delightful services & products.

Do you have girlfriends you get together with from time to time and you always leave their presence uplifted and feeling released? Well I do and we call ourselves, "The Good Life Girlfriends; We Get Together to Get It Together." We're bringing you a Women's Day Workshop on Saturday, December 1st, 2012 in Raleigh, North Carolina. We got great speakers and giveaways for you and your girlfriends. Click here to learn more and register for our early bird special of just $10.00!

"Rewrite Your Story" by Shivawn A. Mitchell

Rewrite Your Story is a real-life, persuasive self-empowerment book about a young lady who made risky decisions which turned into frequent mistakes, but has also learned from them and now wants to enlighten others how to evaluate self and make the needed changes to successfully “start over.” Authoress Shivawn A. Mitchell fiercely uses her own story as a tried & true example for readers to reassuringly take hold of as they begin the chapters of their new stories. Shivawn states that everyone experiences things like set-backs, broken hearts and disappointments, but the key is how we come back from those things; she asks, “Have you learned from life’s experiences, or are those experiences taking a toll on your life”? The goal is to provide readers with the knowledge to take the steps of changing their minds about their past mistakes. Listening to our inner voice and knowing when to throw the towel in, (or as Shivawn puts it, “…learn when to fold”), are two of the many compelling nuggets that I took away from Rewrite Your Story because Shivawn mentions that we often ignore the signals our bodies are sending us when we become overwhelmed-which leads to stress, all because we are afraid of being labeled as giving up and/or not trying hard enough. This then in turn makes us push ourselves harder as well as internalize problems in fear of humiliation and further interfere with our health. When you’re ready to make some positive & ambitious changes in your life, I suggest reading Rewrite Your Story by Shivawn A. Mitchell as it is certainly like having an accountability partner literally in the palm of your hand. Reviewed by: Larie of My Heart Speaks…™ & Resident Book Reviewer for Breathe Again Magazine smooches,

...of Women's History Month's Big Give

In honor of Women's History Month, Akilah Richards is hosting a segment called Women Who Give Big and my big give is a complimentary 40-minute, Imperfectly Perfect…and I’m ok with that™, session where the two of us, ("You" & Larie), will acknowledge our imperfections as perfections in our own sight and thus begin to birth as our authentic selves via Skype or phone for the entire month of March.




To register, email Larie, (Larie(at)Lariewrites(dotcom), with two projected times and dates, Tuesday-Friday 10 A.M.-2 P.M. or 8 P.M.-9:30 P.M., and the preferred method of communication and I will then send you a confirmation email.

Thank you Akilah Richards for initiating the, Women Who Give Big.

smooches,

...of You're Going to Have to Check My Math

10+10=1 (or maybe 2). Yup, you read it right, 10+10=1, (or maybe 2). Remember that giveaway I mentioned on Monday; well there's actually 2 going on and the 2nd one is what my new math skills are based on, the Extravagant Indie Giveaway. Ten loving women entrepreneurs have teamed up in the Extravagant Indie Giveaway in celebration of Women's History Month.

Stop by the Smell Goods Spa blog for all the quick & easy details.

Now, for the other giveaway, after you've browsed the prizes AND entered the Extravagant Indie Giveaway, go to the My Heart Speaks…™ Facebook Fan Page and simply click "Like" on the post about this giveaway and you're entered to receive a free copy of In Her Heart…®, Winter Edition 2012.

Lastly, the debut signing of My Heart Speaks…of Boys and a Girl©2012 is tomorrow at the Wayne County Library in Goldsboro, North Carolina from 5 P.M.-7 P.M.

smooches,

Guest Post by David Haas

Good morning! I have something special to share with you all for the weekend; A GUEST POST by David Haas, a writer for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. As most of you know, I am a Thyroid Cancer survivor, two different types of Cancer, yes, but Cancer nonetheless, so when Mr. Haas contacted me about his work, I wanted to make every effort to get his contribution recognized.

Thank you David Haas for sharing your work here at "My Heart Speaks..."


"Whether you were just diagnosed, are undergoing treatment, or are in remission of cancer- physical fitness is one of the best things that you can do for your health. Research has proven that a consistent exercise routine has many benefits.


Exercise is beneficial for your overall health and quality of life. It improves your circulation, the health of your bones, and increases your appetite. It also greatly improves the health of your muscles by rebuilding lost muscle mass. Research has found that exercise can also decrease nausea and pain, and that cardiovascular activity can boost your immune system. Another benefit of regular exercise is that it reduces fatigue and creates an energy balance in your body. Suggestive, but by no means definitive studies show exercising may make you have a less likely chance of relapsing and dying from cancer."

David Haas

smooches,
Larie

...of "S.H.E. Spits"

Tickled with a little bit of “Phenomenal Woman” by Dr. Maya Angelou then embraced with some of Nztozake Shange’s, “For Colored Girls,” comes an outstandingly written & directed poetry/monologue piece from J’Zhanel “JZ” Cole titled, “S.H.E. Spits.” Co-produced with Anneka LaRobin, this performance poetry presentation, (I dare you to say that 7 times fast! Lol), is comprised of an all-female cast, all representing a different color. Each Queen is musically escorted onto the stage, which heightens the audience’s anticipation.

Mother Nature, played by Courtney Nicole, poses rhetorical questions & statements before each Queen spits her account as what’s to come.

Pacey Liz Walker portrays Queen Purple; royalty. She presents herself in just that way when she reminds males of her name, “Queen S.H.E.” not ma or shawty. She says, “I am more than just what you see.”

Queen Pink; feisty like, BAM!-This-Is-Me, is J’Zhanel “JZ Cole’s soul-bearing personality. She educates us on what poetry does for her and many others. Skillfully Queen Pink compares her spoken words & the microphone to a Graffiti Artist with a can of paint while encouraging her receivers, “…staying true to what whatever it is you do…” You have to love this Queen for practicing what “S.H.E. Spits.”

Vulnerability comes to mind when I think of Queen Yellow. LaToya Morgan breathed this illuminating Queen with a plea to her M.I.A. father about the occasions he missed out on and the near catastrophic events that took place in her life as a result of his absence. Queen Yellow wonders if he’s concerned about, “…who I was. Who I am. Who I become.”

Green often represents envy; however, Anneka LaRobin sheds a new perspective on this color as Queen Green. She gives her own insight of being from L.A. & expresses her admiration for her hometown in spite of the negative stereotypical comments we hear.
Queen Purple comes back and royally blesses our Kings with an inspirational mouthful that does nothing but edify our brothers, our Kings.

Then, we are taken aback yet compassionate because of Queen Red’s, embodied by Valaira Sa-Ra Smith, brazen admissions about the men in her life. This Queen pricks the feminine spectators by pointing out, “…keep it real, for the right price, you’d be a hoe…” and with that, one will either hug her or slap her. Personally, I felt like doing both! tee-hee

“S.H.E. Spits,” again, written & directed by J’Zhanel “JZ” Cole and co-produced with Anneka LaRobin, is an emotion-stirring, self-reflective enactment that I anticipate & will be experiencing again. I identified with every Queen; address me respectfully-Queen Purple; poetry is a life sustenance for me-Queen Pink; why did my biological father sign over his parental rights-Queen Yellow; I may be from “the other side of the tracks,” but it’s my home-Queen Pink, and finally, I’ve been the other woman and I’ve dealt with the other woman-Queen Red.

Now, as a reminder for you to keep up with this production and making it a bucket list candidate to attend, I am giving away one autographed cast sheet, (see photo below), to a randomly selected commenter. You have until Monday, 31 October 2011, 5P.M. eastern time to enter!



smooches,

...of Awareness Bracelet

Instead of another giveaway, I want to do an honor-away, (using my poetic license). I just finished listening to a Blog Talk show about Medical Myths. A fellow listener shared a personal story about how her sister being denied treatment for Breast Cancer because she had no insurance! Here's the "gist" of the story below. Keep in mind that this conversation took place in the online chat area for the live broadcast so it's a bit choppy:

Sister of Breast Cancer Victim: "My sister died from breast cancer because she had no insurance Doctors refused to treat her"

Me: "how long ago was this"

Sister of Breast Cancer Victim: "More than 10 years it was before they started fighting for them to stop letting women go untreated they essentially put her on a plane home I will never forget how she has a hole in her chest the size of a football because they would not treat"

Me: "Man, I did not realize how serious it got"

Sister of Breast Cancer Victim: "It has made me huge advocate for health insurance and getting treatment for those I know going through. It has made me do a lot of research on everything from homeopathic to relaxation therapy. The body has no place for stress that is why it turns into diseases. It is important to be stress free..."

Me: "So are you an advocate for Breast Cancer Awareness as well?"

Sister of Breast Cancer Victim: "Most def..."

My feelings were really touched by this story and her testimony about her own conquering scuffle with Cancer. This woman has been both directly & indirectly affected by Cancer and I want her to know that I appreciate her for sharing in the chat room and allowing me to share here. So, to show my appreciation I would like Celeste to have the Breast Cancer Awareness bracelet from Bohemien Spirit, an online Jewelry and Accessories Boutique.

A portion of the proceeds from each bracelet goes to the Renewing Your Spirit Foundation.

Now, of course you know that I have a couple of pieces myself, the Silver Trinity Earrings, & the Simplify Tag Line Bracelet. The earrings are light-weight, a plus for me since my ears are kinda long & pointy, they don't tug at my earlobes and causing them to look even longer, LOL! As for the bracelet, the beads are very smooth against my skin and the tag "stays in its' place!" Bohemian Spirit will definitely be getting more of my business!

smooches,

...of Breast Cancer Bling

Thank you all who read and/or participated in the "Smell Good for the CAUSE" giveaway! This week, I'd like to offer another giveaway in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Many people have been affected directly or indirectly by Breast Cancer and most of the time he/she just wants to know that they have not been forgotten. If you'd like to read about a personal journey, visit "Black Pearl Creations."

"Without BLING, it's boring!" says Kisha, owner of "Bling by KishaNicole." I've had the pleasure of being blinged by KishaNicole with a custom shirt for my upcoming workshop titled, "My Mess is Your MESSage!" and I love it!



The shirt is a comfortable snug-fit and of great quality. During the ordering process, KishaNicole quickly responded & delivered; she even sent me a proof of the shirt via e-mail! I will definitely be getting blinged again!

One of KishaNicole's line, "Breast Cancer Bling" is raising awareness about Breast Cancer and supporting the Susan G. Komen foundation by donating 20% of Breast Cancer proceeds! So, "My Heart Speaks..." is offering one of you this cute Breast Cancer Bling Jersey!



To enter, you may tell us:

1. How Breast Cancer awareness causes have directly or indirectly impacted you.
or
2. How you help to raise Breast Cancer Awareness and how that awareness has benefited someone.

The giveaway will run through Friday, 07 October 2011 and a winner will be announced on Monday, 10 October 2011! Go ahead and get-your-BLING-on!

smooches,

...of AND THE WINNER IS...

... Mr. Rufus Gibson!



Rufus is a Zumba instructor in New York and hosting a "Party in Pink" Zumbathon for Breast Cancer on Saturday, October 8, 2011 from 12 to 1:30 at the Yonkers YMCA. Raffles, gift baskets, and 5 Zumba instructors are just a few of the activites at the party. If you can't make it to the party, you may send a donation to:

17 Riverdale Ave
Yonkers NY 10701.

(If you send a check, please make it out to the Susan B. Komen foundation)




Thank you to all who read and commented on the post, "Smell Good for the CAUSE," which is an ongoing support system for Cancer at Smell Goods '98™!

smooches,

...of Smell Good for the CAUSE!

“live good. feel good. smell good™.”

This is Smell Goods’ 98™, (a family owned & operated retailer of all-natural bath & body products), sacred word! Specializing in signature oil blends, hand-dipped incense, & effective made-to-order, bath & body products, Smell Goods ‘98™ delivers natural satisfaction to your body!

After some difficulty of not locating a specific peddler for preferred oils and/or incense, the Smell Goods Lady & her husband decided to create delicious products for the body by blending together raw ingredients, such as cocoa, Shea, & almond, saturated with natural, essential, & fragrant oils then finished off with an infusion of herbs; surely, a gourmet experience for our bodies! Established since 1998 and currently succeeding, Smell Goods ‘98™ should be audaciously looking ahead to another decade!

Right now my underarms are lightly brushed with the Essentials Deodorant, (Basil, Sage, Mint flavor), that aromatically hypnotizes me all-day-long, (Yesssssss, I sniff my pits okaaaaaayyyyahh, LOL!). However, tonight my lullaby will be the fragrance of Peace, also an Essential Deodorant! I like Smell Goods ‘98™ deodorant because as a result of my thyroid matters, there are times when I become very sweaty, (and I mean to the point of heavily dampening my clothes), and I end up having to shower & change clothes. Well, I noticed that since using the Essentials Deodorant, not only do my armpits not sweat as bad, but it also stays with me! By that I mean its’ aroma stood persuasively sensing even when I did begin to sweat, whereas with prior deodorants and/or antiperspirants it smelled as if I had used nothing at all!

I’m also presently enjoying the Calm-scented Specialty Bar. Its’ fragrance is relaxing and when paired with the Peace-scented Essentials Deodorant, WOW, one doesn’t outshine the other; they harmoniously cooperate! Smell Goods ‘98™ also offers fine fragrance oils, some of which I’ve tried, (Green Tea Medley/Wild Berry Medley, Milk & Honey, Coconutty, & Sheba), that aren’t oily or scented too strongly. My nose appreciates being bombarded by the tasty aromas which do not make my nose itch or cause me to sneeze!

Now, my boasting isn’t just about how much I enjoy using Smell Goods ‘98™ bath & body products, but also about the awesome cause they are supporting. They have partnered with Solutions Cancer Resource Center Inc., (a support service for the daily needs of children with Cancer, children who have lost a parent to Cancer, and for the caregivers of Cancer Patients), by monetarily supporting the SCRC Inc. in an effort for the assistance of those with terminal illnesses to continue!

Their current project is cleverly named, “Smell Good for the CAUSE!” A blend of saponified coconut oil & raw cocoa butter is molded in a luxurious pink bath bar which sports a ribbon! Proceeds from every purchase go to the SCRC, Inc.! So, as an advocate for Smell Goods ‘98™ and Cancer support resources, I am giving away 2, (two) of the Smell Good for the CAUSE bars to one person; one to keep and one to share! To be considered for this giveaway, you should leave a comment below about how Breast Cancer has affected you physically, or personally by way of a loved one. You have the remainder of the week to enter as I will select a winner over the weekend and make the announcement on Monday, 03 October 2011.

You can visit the Solutions Cancer Resource Center Inc. here and/or at their blog for more ways to help, receive encouragement or give encouragement! You can also visit Smell Goods ‘98™ website and/or blog to keep up with other great offers and of course to get your “Smell Good on!”

smooches,

...of Goldsboro's Got Talent Y'all!

So I’m walking up the refrigerated aisle of Wal-Mart, in pursuit of milk, and minding my own business, when some random guy yells, “LARIE! YOU’RE LARIE WRITES!” I stepped back a little as he came into my personal space and braced myself for a quick sprint. Still yelling, he says, “YOU WROTE THAT BOOK CALLED ‘MY HEART SPEAKS...’ RIGHT?” Unsure of what would happen next, I hesitantly said, “Uhhhh yea, sure?” He told me that we’d met before and I was thinking, “Yeah right, that’s what ‘they’ all say baby boy!” Then he told me his name, Milton, and I falsely said aloud, “Oh yeah, Milton, yea that’s right; all the while asking myself, “Who is Milton? I don’t know you bruh!” But, I played along ‘cause I’m considerate like that.

Milton exhaled and extended his clammy hand towards me. Carefully, I accepted and was taken aback by his strong grip that pulled me into his suffocating embrace. Once he decided to let me go, he asked me for my autograph. I said sure but quickly thought, “Why did I say yes?” because he yanked his white t-shirt up with his left hand, and pounded his chest with his right hand and requested that I sign his “heart” so that he may be encouraged to let it speak as well! Shaking my head, I started to say, “Dude, really?”

Okay, all right, if I was in court and had been sworn in, this is the story that I’d tell without the use of my special imagination:

I was in fact, in Wal-Mart, headed towards the milk. A familiar face was coming my way and in my mind, I screeched, “THAT’S MILTON MCCLAIN! THE DUDE WHO SANG AT END ZONE! OH MY, WHAT IS HE DOIN’ IN GOLDSBORO?” However, not wanting to frighten the young man with my excitement, I silently counted, 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1, and calmly said, “Milton? How ya doing? We met in Raleigh.” As I extended my hand to him, he confirmed our past meeting and firmly shook my hand. I tried not to bombard him with too many questions because I didn’t want to be the “Crazy-groupie-Wal-Mart chick” that had Milton McClain hemmed up in the refrigerated aisle!

Therefore, I inquired about his amazing singing career and rejoiced at some great news he shared, (You’ll have to keep up with his fan page to find out…that’s IF he decides to share it, tee-hee). He handed me a SIGNED copy of his CD and I almost “lost” it! I asked, “Is this for me?” and he said it was! WOW, Milton knew that he’d see me again so he was carrying that CD around all this time…just-for-me! Oh, wait, I’m sorry, I forgot that I was “under oath” right now! LOL

But really, Milton McClain and I were both invited guests of Thursday Night Live, hosted by Author Noiz, back in July. Milton performed some of his songs and I was signing books. I am very impressed with Milton’s work and see him excelling abundantly. Click here to hear for yourselves!

...of "Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs by Warren Baldwin

“…Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ Philip asked. ‘How can I,’ he said, ‘unless someone explains it to me?’ She he invited Philip to come up and sit with him…as they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, ‘Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized?’ And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:26-38 NIV

Reading the book of Proverbs, at times I would say, “WHAT?” because I did not understand what point the writer was trying to make. Then came the time that I invited Brother Warren Baldwin, author of, "Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs," into my “chariot” to explain a few of them to me. Baldwin says, "…biblical proverbs reflect wisdom and experience, but they offer the added ingredient of divine influence and personality. One purpose of Proverbs is to promote a relationship with God.” (P. 11)

"Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs," demonstrates the wisdom of Proverbs by way of direct and indirect personal experiences. This is one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much. I didn’t feel as if Warren tried to puff himself up by flaunting his biblical knowledge. He humbly, and without adding or taking away from God’s word, affords readers the opportunity to thrust themselves into the book of Proverbs in the absence of a fear for lack of discernment. I know for me, many times I avoided some of the Proverbs because I didn’t comprehend their messages, therefore, I could not live it. Now, it appears applicable because of the direct personal experiences my Brother-in-Christ discloses. For example, he uses the story of his pet hamsters wanting to get out of their cage where everything is provided for them and into the awaiting dangers on the outside to explain Proverbs 3:5 NIV, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” In reference to this scripture, I’ve whined, “But how? What does that mean?” and now, thanks to Warren’s offering of some of his life, I better understand it because he said, “It is striking how much we humans resemble these rodents. God gives us a choice-we can live within the confines of a ‘cage’ that He has for us, or we can climb out and roam free. But to stay within the cage means we have to understand God’s desire for us and we have to trust that His way is really best.” (P. 65)

WOW!

Then, there’s the indirect personal examples, such as, the man who was barred from coaching a youth sport’s team because of his temper. “Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs” says, “Sadly, it didn’t disturb ‘Terry.’ Proverbs says he is a fool. When told by a sports board of directors that ‘you are too hotheaded and we don’t want you coaching for us anymore,’ ‘Terry’ did not say, ‘Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll try to do better. Please give me another chance after I’ve proved my character has developed.’ Instead, he tried to argue in a vain attempt to prove that he doesn’t argue!” (P.147) I really laughed out loud, I mean from the depths of my belly-type-laugh, when I read this part! But, besides invoking my laughter, this story helped me to understand Proverbs 20:3 NIV, “It is to a man’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.”

AH-HA! I see.

Lastly, my favorite part of “Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs,” comes from section 6, titled, “Wisdom in Relationships.” Here, Warren Baldwin speaks about “Reading Hearts,” (P. 155). The proverb says, “As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.” Proverbs 27:19 NIV. (Anybody know why this is tagged my favorite part???) Though Warren begins from the angle of Jesus’ heart in this story, he gives us a demonstration of how the heart of a Samaritan woman is revealed without condemnation. “As water reflects a face, so a woman’s heart reflects the woman.” ‘Jesus can read the hearts of people. He could read the heart of this woman; and behind the pride, ignorance, and degradation, He saw something redeeming: honesty. Jesus read this woman without judgment or condescension. He knew her story and still offered her the opportunity to bear the treasure of the Gospel. She did. Every person we meet, even a woman at a well, is a potential vessel for God to store His treasure.’ (P. 156)

“Whoever listens to Me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” Proverbs 1:33 NIV Page 63 of “Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs” says, “This proverb is a bold statement of confidence and security.” As I read further on, my mind opened up to the danger that I am in of possibly never experiencing joy. But, I will not tell you how, you MUST read it for yourself…your OWN copy! :)

Thank you, Brother Warren Baldwin, for the time you have invested in preparing this book. I am thankful, also, to God for ushering you to the experiences, which allowed you to pass this wisdom along to others. I have totally delighted in the pleasure of reading “Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems from Proverbs.” For it has given me an understanding that moves me into the action of applying the Proverbs to my life just as the eunuch was moved into the action of being baptized after Philip explained Isaiah 53:7-8 to him. May God bless an abundance of His remaining creation with the same honor! Congratulations, my Brother, I love you!

Blessings,
Larie

Further Resources:

Amazon Books

Church Fountain

Family Fountain

Bible Fountain

Titus 2 in Action

Heart Light: "East from West"

Heart Light: "Irreconcilable Differences"

Heart Light: "Entrusted"

...of In Her Heart Magazine

UPDATE: Give away now closed

The random number generator thingy at Random (dot) Org chose the numbers 4 & 3 for the winners of a one year subscription to "In Her Heart..." magazine, which means that Deb & Grace and Peace are the recipients of that subscription.

Also, here's something that you all did not know, those of you who specifically expressed an interest in the magazine but were not chosen...YOU'RE GONNA GET A SINGLE ISSUE!!! So, e-mail me your mailing addresses and then excitedly wait by your mailbox. When you see the mailcarrier, TACKLE him/her to make sure that "In Her Heart..." magazine is the first thing you get. The other stuff is probably bills, and who wants those? LOL

I love you all and am full of gratitude that you read, commented, and expressed an interest in this magazine. Y'all are going to love it!

smooches,
Larie



In Her Heart… A Christian Woman’s Magazine is making my heart send forth-melodious applause! Y’all know I am about being real and sharing my heart, and this magazine is touching my heart.

Heather Vacarella, one of the copy editors, introduced In Her Heart… magazine to me this past summer at the She Speaks conference. While standing in the line to talk with Lysa Terkeurst, Heather approached me and asked if I were on the writer’s track portion of the conference. After I confirmed her question, she pointed out a book that I was holding, for the Write Reason, and questioned my thoughts on it because she’d heard great things about it and desired to read it as well. Speaking highly of "for the Write Reason," I assured Heather that it is an awesome tool for writers. She then asked if I’d submitted a book proposal over the weekend and when I said that I had, she expressed an interest in the subject of the book. Oh, how excited I was to be able to tell her! After explaining, she mentioned In Her Heart… magazine and introduced me to Debbie Mascioli, founder of Whole Heart Ministries and publisher and guess what, she graciously gave me a copy of In Her Heart…! I read it cover to cover that evening before “calling some hogs,” and was very impressed.

Here’s a quote from the opening page:

“In Her Heart Magazine…
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be also, (Matthew 6:21).

A personalized magazine to help you connect to the whole heart of ordinary women sharing their ‘Stories Within.’

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart, (Luke 2:19).

In Her Heart…is an inspired forum that has been created to reach the tender place of a woman’s heart. Each of us holds a collection of treasures; these treasures are life lessons. They are unique, yet when shared are common threads that weave the women of God together.”

I’ve got my copy, go ahead, and get yours too!

“In Her Heart… is published quarterly by Whole Heart Ministries, Inc., a non-profit ministry which is fully supported through donations, gifts and magazine subscriptions. The subscription price is $4/issue or $16/yr. S&H are included in the subscription price. The Office of Publication is:
Whole Heart Ministries, Inc.
PO Box 413
Hammonton, NJ 08037
609-561-0512

Inquiries, comments, articles and photo submissions can be made by contacting:

connections@wholeheartministry.org,” taken from page 19 of the Fall Edition 2009, Vol. 2 Issue 4


By the way, in support of Whole Heart Ministry, I am giving away two subscriptions. All you have to do is leave a comment specifically stating that you are interested and you will be considered for your very own 1yr. Subscription to In Her Heart Magazine…

smooches!

...of something worth posting twice in one day

Hey y'all!

I do not usually post twice in a day but as I was carousing some of my favorite blogs, I happened by my Brother in Christ's, Warren Baldwin, blog and noticed that he is having a give-a-way of his book, "Roaring Lions, Cracking Rocks, and Other Gems From Proverbs."

I have next Wednesday designated to tell y'all how much I am so enjoying this book so seeing his post inspired this one. Go over there to enter the give-a-way so that you can own a copy of this awesome book. Seriously, don't wait for my review of the book, go over there NOW and enter the give-a-way! You will not be disappointed!

smooches,
Larie

...of "We Snap in Silence," by LaVender Shedrick Williams

“…As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up-one on one side, one on the other-so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword…” Exodus 17:8-15 NIV



Just when my hands began falling from the weight of feeling as if I’m “in this” alone, >>“We Snap in Silence: Unveiling Private Pain and Finding Perfect Peace as a Woman, Wife, and Mother,” authored by LaVender Shedrick Williams, arrived in my mailbox. Sister-friend LaVender steps forward from behind the mask of false-perfection-appearances by recognizing the importance of meeting herself where she is and accepting herself whether she likes herself or not. She says, “Unmasking began my healing process and placed me in a position to encourage other women. Prayerfully, my hope is that others will feel the liberty to unmask and begin their healing process also.” (P.9)

“We Snap in Silence" is a straightforward read. It’s not overwhelmingly large, which makes it, in the sense of time, an undemanding read. Usually, I shy away from books that are large no matter how enticing the title may be because I immediately feel as if I’d “never” have the time to read it. Getting personal for a moment, I have a husband, three kids and I put up with depression. Therefore, reading is a lavish luxury for me. Give me a book that is going to make an impact without trying to entertain me with flattering words and doesn’t require me to punch a time card to read it! In an electronic conversation with LaVender, I told her that I appreciated the simplicity of her book by telling her that she gave me exactly what I needed. She replied, “Larie, thank you also for encouraging me about the length of the book. The enemy tires to laugh in my ear because the book is so thin, but like you said, not many mothers have time or want to read a thick book. Since this book was so necessary for me to write, I had to get to the point and shut up.” In regards to my depression, most of the time I do not feel motivated to do anything so attempting to read a book that appears to be as thick as my dictionary…nah-uh, not gonna happen!

Thanks LaVender!

Back to "We Snap in Silence," we’re delivered perceptible applications in the “Now What?” section. Authoress LaVender Shedrick Williams educates women on how to apply what we read in her book, so that it will not be another inspiring bookshelf book. “Look” at y’all, eyes wide in anticipation ‘cause you thought I was ‘bout to say how LaVender says to do it! HA-HA! Of course not my dear friends, you’ve got to get the book and read it for yourselves!!! smooches :)

Lastly, my favorite section is “Parting the Curtains” because it is here that our friend lets us into her life. In doing so, LaVender gains credibility by revealing personal masked moments. She made herself relatable, in saying, “I definitely couldn’t write about something I know nothing about.” (P.19) So you see, Mrs. Williams is not on a quest to write a book just to see her name in print, she has lived & is living what we read about. One of her goals is for us, (women), to know that we are not alone, and y’all know that this is what I strive to be about as well, hence, my recommendation of "We Snap in Silence: Unveiling Private Pain and Finding Perfect Peace as a Woman, Wife, and Mother," written by, LaVender Shedrick Williams.

But sorry, you can’t have mine. There are some books that I read and pass on. Then there are others that I read, highlight, make notes in and read again and LaVender’s book is one of those that I used my highlighter in. In fact, I had to get another highlighter because the first one ran dry on me! Instead, I’ll leave you with my favorite quote from "We Snap in Silence,"

“The candle burning at both ends doesn’t burn forever. These melting moments are experienced by every woman at various degrees. Although the moments are only temporary, they can have life-long effects. These melting moments can be controlled or even avoided.” (P.60)

Congratulations and thank you, LaVender, for >>“We Snap in Silence: Unveiling Private Pain and Finding Perfect Peace as a Woman, Wife, and Mother.” I, for my part, greatly appreciate it and am inspired. I love you!

smooches,
Larie

Further Resources:
MomsWeb
Mom's Peace Bites
Raising Mothers
Mom's Peace Place

... of "Paying It Forward"

I was visiting Edie at Rich Gifts, and she has posted a "Pay It Forward" Challenge on her blog.

This is a great way to bless others with a surprise in their mail--using your time, talent, and love.

Here are the rules as posted on her blog:

1. The first 3 bloggers to leave a comment letting me know they want to participate, will receive a hand-made gift from me.

2. Those 3 bloggers promise to post this challenge on their blog (meaning they too will ‘pay-it-forward’, creating a handmade gift for the first 3 bloggers that leave a comment on their blog!!)

The gift can be any price range--though I'm thinking that keeping it small will be sufficient--and you have 365 days to make/ship your gift!! I will get you your gift way before a year from now! I have no clue right now what I will make but it still will not take a year to get it to you!

If you want to participate, just leave a comment telling me so and then repost this on your blog so that you can pay it forward to 3 others, and so on, and so on, and so on.......You can still leave a comment on what you think about this even if you don't want to participate!!