Own It

Bachelorette Weekend

2011-04-08T11:23:00.000-04:00

SO Much to share - - but here is a lil glimpse!!

To be Continued...

Thoughts during Lent.

2011-03-16T11:46:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking a lot lately. I have a lot of friends with very different opinions than mine. Some more liberal. Some more crass. Some more sexual. Some more inappropriate.

Typically, I enjoy hearing others' opinions, as long as they're not on a freaking soap box acting like theirs is the only opinion that matters or is correct. I like the challenge in the conversation that differences in opinion bring. Hashing it out..having an organized and adult conversation..what I don't like is feeling judged or silly for my own opinions.

But I should own it. All the time. Embrace my views and lifestyle and opinions and hold true to them.

It's hard sometimes...don't you think? When did we all get so bossy and opinionated that we feel the need to force our views on others? What happened to loving the person, supporting them, and being kind and temperate?

This is something I struggle with, and has become my focus this third week of Lent.

Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.-- Mother Teresa

Do not put your faith in what statistics say until you have carefully considered what they do not say.-- William W. Watt

Faith is courage; it is creative while despair is always destructive.-- David S. Muzzey

Faith is not a delicate flower which would wither away under the slightest stormy weather.-- Mahatma Gandhi

Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.-- Saint Augustine

Faith makes the discords of the present the harmonies of the future. -- Robert Collyer

Fear can keep us up all night long, but faith makes one fine pillow.-- Philip Gulley

and this is my personal favorite...

Above all, be true to yourself, and if you cannot put your heart in it, take yourself out of it.--Hardy D. Jackson

Operation Beautiful!

2011-02-19T09:10:00.003-05:00

A friend passed this along to me today! All over the world women are realizing how much power and change are put forth when we stand together! NJ is gonna get blown-up with some Post-It's this week!

http://operationbeautiful.com/the-movie/

You Are More..

2011-02-02T11:07:00.000-05:00

My Mom shared this video with me (thanks Mom) & I really liked it. I think we all have guilt or feel broken from time to time - and it is good to be reminded that we are loved any way..

Our Very Own Own iT Girl: Wins "Best Start-Up" Pitch at Entrepreneur Expose'

2010-12-08T15:19:00.000-05:00

Kathleen won! Not only is she a single mother who constantly inspires those around her... She can BAKE! :) Look at what they're saying about her at blog.NJ.com. So Proud of you Kath!! xo

Bundt Blessings wins "Best Start-Up" Pitch at Entrepreneur Expose'
from http://blog.nj.com/
Published:Tuesday, December 07, 2010, 9:27 AM by Melissa Gasnick Cloeter and Linda Wellbrock/Business

For some attendees, our last Entrepreneur Expose´ proved to be an eye-opening experience to their businesses. One such entrepreneur is Kathleen Fitzpatrick of Bundt Blessings from Morristown, NJ, winner of “Best Start-Up Business” category.

Kathleen Fitzpatrirck and her mother, Co-Founders of Bundt Blessings

Bundt Blessings started four years ago when Kathleen's life as a single mother left her searching for extra-income opportunities during the holiday season. To her surprise, she found that her products were in demand regardless of the holidays as people requested them to celebrate many milestones in life. Recognizing an opportunity, Kathleen has since grown Bundt Blessings into a successful year-round business, emphasizing quality and personalization. Kathleen explains, “It is our mission to bring an exceptional cake product to the market while adding a meaningful touch through the customized blessing messages attached. We feel it is our privilege to provide a product that not only perpetuates goodness but also guarantees quality.”

While she still struggles with the difficulties associated with growth, Kathleen is determined that Bundt Blessings will continue to be present for the most important celebrations of people's lives. It appears that her customers agree, as Bundt Blessings continues to grow even in this weak economy. As Kathleen notes, “Thankfully, the economy has not impacted our business. Being that our product is geared primarily toward celebrating life’s big events (new baby, new home, teacher’s gifts, gets well, holiday gifts, sympathy); it seems to be a priority in our client’s lives. People who were buying our Bundt cakes were buying them for the belief in both the quality and the blessings; a combination that can’t be beat!”

A role model for single mothers with an entrepreneurial spirit, Kathleen impressed both judges and attendees with her story and her fabulously tasty Bundt cake. Once you taste her wonderful creation, you will see why Kathleen and Bundt Blessings won “Best Start-Up” pitch. We encourage you to support her business this Holiday Season and order a Bundt Blessing. You will LOVE these cakes!

For more information on Bundt Blessings, please visit their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Morristown-NJ/Bundt-Blessings/123869310532?v=wall. For more information about Entrepreneur Expose events, please visit our site at www.entrepreneurexpose.com.

Taking "Stock"

2010-11-22T19:44:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving being just around the corner I find it only appropriate to thank God for so much in my life! This holiday always takes me by surprise in it's "depth". When I start my list of things to be grateful for I realize it could go on for pages! But this year I find myself writing down new things. Things as simple as having a home... when I have lived along side people who did not. Things like running water- electricity- and health care. Working in Pediatric Oncology now things like "healthy" cells... eyesight...and a working Immune system. FAITH- and the knowledge and a relationship with a God who loves me unconditionally to name a few.

On my Dad's side Thanksgiving is our holiday! Ever since we were young we all gathered in Upstate NY with 50+ Uncles, Aunts, Cousins- and of course My Grandpa & Grandma, as they looked out at the sea of people their love created! Many a memory- piece of advice- and so much love has been experienced there! In light of losing my Grandpa a few months ago- this is our first Thanksgiving without our patriarch- and oh how much I now see the role he played! His long winded "grace" before the feast- his pockets of time with all 28 Grandchildren- 5 sons and 5 daughters-in-law...this is his legacy.He taught us at each moment...this was his way of continuing our family. I am so grateful for a man who taught us that God and Family are something not to be taken for granted. I thank him for teaching us early on about these truths so that the week before he died I was able to sit with him and tell him I have no regrets. I KNOW he knew how much I loved him... he was able to see it and experience it way before his deathbed, and he in turn told me the same. What a gift!

Let's not wait until last minutes or last chances or even holidays to "take stock" and realize how much we DO have. I know I have more then a few pages! So Happy Thanksgiving!

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” - John F. Kennedy

New Issue of Radiant Magazine

2010-10-29T13:43:00.001-04:00

Radiant's Holiday Issue was just released!

About Radiant: Radiant is a chic and classy Catholic magazine distributed nationally to women ages 15 to 27. It features Catholic news & articles on issues affecting young women today: health, beauty, politics, love, style and difficult life circumstances.

Check it out & share with your family & friends!

www.be-radiant.com

Or check out all their online issues here!

I want to change the world - Instead I sleep

2010-10-19T16:03:00.000-04:00

..Those are Lyrics from Ingrid's "Keep Breathing" - one of my favorite songs (and prob yours too)

Breathe in.. Breathe out.

I love New York

2010-10-08T18:47:00.003-04:00

Hey there Blogland, are you Owning it? I am!

Last night I got back on the horse - and ran for the first time in a WHILE. As a huffed along on my little jog (on a treadmill in the gym in my building) I had the MOST incredible view of the city. The windows face south & I always love the view while I run - but last night it was Sunset - YOWZA.

I started to think about just HOW much I love my city -
New York, New York: The city SO nice, they Named it TWICE!

This past weekend 2 of my besties (above) came to visit - and we went all over the city -it reminded me just how awesome this place is.

Let me break it down for you...

A few of my favorite things...

(This is the view from our Wedding Venue)

If you have never been - you MUST. There is no place like it & no place I'd rather be.

NYC OWNS IT

Talk about owning it...

2010-10-05T14:46:00.004-04:00

*special thanks to Leyland who found this very worthwhile film

"I choose my own way to burn" - Sophie Scholl

2010-09-23T09:36:00.003-04:00

I recently saw this posted by another young woman and friend who OWN'S-IT!- Lila Rose. I myself had seen a movie about Sophie last year and was moved beyond words at this girls strength and determination. Read Below and be Inspired!

Sophie Scholl was a young student at the University of Munich during the Holocaust. She joined her brother Hans, a fellow student, and a few of their friends in the secret White Rose Society at the University. Together, they created and distributed leaflets around campus speaking the truth about Hitler, the Third Reich and their slaughter of the Jews, the disabled, the sick, and those who disagreed with them. Sophie, Hans and a friend were discovered by the Nazis and arrested. Hans attempted to take full responsibility, giving Sophie the option to deny her involvement and escape potential execution. But during the trial, Sophie valiantly chose to stand by her convictions and the truths she helped to pen in those leaflets. Ultimately, Sophie chose to lay down her life: within hours of her confession, the Nazis beheaded 20 year old Sophie by guillotine.

Sophie Scholl writes:

"The real damage is done by those millions who want to 'survive.' The honest men who just want to be left in peace. Those who don’t want their little lives disturbed by anything bigger than themselves. Those with no sides and no causes. Those who won’t take measure of their own strength, for fear of antagonizing their own weakness. Those who don’t like to make waves—or enemies. Those for whom freedom, honor, truth, and principles are only literature. Those who live small, mate small, die small. It’s the reductionist approach to life: if you keep it small, you’ll keep it under control. If you don’t make any noise, the bogeyman won’t find you. But it’s all an illusion, because they die too, those people who roll up their spirits into tiny little balls so as to be safe. Safe?! From what? Life is always on the edge of death; narrow streets lead to the same place as wide avenues, and a little candle burns itself out just like a flaming torch does. I choose my own way to burn."

Playing For Change.. Around the world

2010-09-20T23:46:00.000-04:00

35

2010-09-15T13:01:00.001-04:00

Today marks 35 months of being "official" with my boyfriend, fiance, best friend, love of my life, Leyland.

It took me less than 35 seconds to fall for him, 35 minutes to be sure... & less than 35 days to tell him I loved him...(well the 2nd time around). You see we originally fell for each other at quite young ages (I was 13 he was 15) See below..

But due to strict parents & life circumstances we got separated & kept apart...we didn't see or speak to each other for 10 years after that. But God had a plan for us & we found each other again - a little over 3 years ago....the rest is History.

I can say in all sincerity that these have been the best 35 months of my entire life. He is my dream come true & the source of so much joy in my life. I have had more than 35 dramatic/chaotic/traumatic events in my life...and had gotten used to being in the drama - in the pain & in the chaos. I didn't realize that life could be SO different.. that one person could come along and turn life into a vacation. Through everything - the good, the bad, the ugly..everything.. Leyland & I have only grown closer. He challenges me & helps me grow, and Leyland is always there no matter what. He is love. He is my biggest Blessing & Gift from God.

I hope in 35 Months from now we are enjoying our married life & are happy as can be in our new adventure...When we are 35 Years old I hope we can sort through all the chaos & struggles that come with having a family of our own .. I hope in 35 Years from now we have lots of grand kids & have aged gracefully - I hear going gray is quite the process!

More than anything - I hope that I always cherish my months with him like I do now.

~xo

The Guy That Says Goodbye to You is Out of His Mind...

2010-09-08T16:31:00.001-04:00

For my FABULOUS girls out there - Here are a few little jingles that help me own it daily - brought to you Exclusively by some sweet & lyrical Men..

Tune in & Chin up...

Feel free to share YOUR recent Music Fun Finds with me.

Keep Calm...

2010-08-31T18:20:00.000-04:00

Thought this was a cute one... Happy Tuesday!

Radiant Fall Issue is Here!

2010-08-20T15:05:00.007-04:00

Ladies

Check our new Fall issue of Radiant Magazine Featuring Own it's very own Grace, Liza and Anna!

Grace's top ten list rocks, Liza's story is beautiful and inspiring and Anna designed the entire issue! AND I can't forget Katie--she shares her marriage w/ us! Yay!! :-)

This is for all you amazing women www.be-radiant.com

Subscribe to Radiant: 4 issues a year for $7
Purchase copies of Radiant for your organization:
$.75 an issue for 1-10 issues + postage
$.50 an issue for 11+ issues + postage

Order Yours Today!

What Is It About 20-Somethings?

2010-08-18T17:19:00.000-04:00

By ROBIN MARANTZ HENIG (NY Times)
For Full Article Click Here Published: August 18, 2010

This question pops up everywhere, underlying concerns about “failure to launch” and “boomerang kids.” Two new sitcoms feature grown children moving back in with their parents — “$#*! My Dad Says,” starring William Shatner as a divorced curmudgeon whose 20-something son can’t make it on his own as a blogger, and “Big Lake,” in which a financial whiz kid loses his Wall Street job and moves back home to rural Pennsylvania. A cover of The New Yorker last spring picked up on the zeitgeist: a young man hangs up his new Ph.D. in his boyhood bedroom, the cardboard box at his feet signaling his plans to move back home now that he’s officially overqualified for a job. In the doorway stand his parents, their expressions a mix of resignation, worry, annoyance and perplexity: how exactly did this happen?

It’s happening all over, in all sorts of families, not just young people moving back home but also young people taking longer to reach adulthood overall. It’s a development that predates the current economic doldrums, and no one knows yet what the impact will be — on the prospects of the young men and women; on the parents on whom so many of them depend; on society, built on the expectation of an orderly progression in which kids finish school, grow up, start careers, make a family and eventually retire to live on pensions supported by the next crop of kids who finish school, grow up, start careers, make a family and on and on. The traditional cycle seems to have gone off course, as young people remain untethered to romantic partners or to permanent homes, going back to school for lack of better options, traveling, avoiding commitments, competing ferociously for unpaid internships or temporary (and often grueling) Teach for America jobs, forestalling the beginning of adult life.

The 20s are a black box, and there is a lot of churning in there. One-third of people in their 20s move to a new residence every year. Forty percent move back home with their parents at least once. They go through an average of seven jobs in their 20s, more job changes than in any other stretch. Two-thirds spend at least some time living with a romantic partner without being married. And marriage occurs later than ever. The median age at first marriage in the early 1970s, when the baby boomers were young, was 21 for women and 23 for men; by 2009 it had climbed to 26 for women and 28 for men, five years in a little more than a generation.

We’re in the thick of what one sociologist calls “the changing timetable for adulthood.” Sociologists traditionally define the “transition to adulthood” as marked by five milestones: completing school, leaving home, becoming financially independent, marrying and having a child. In 1960, 77 percent of women and 65 percent of men had, by the time they reached 30, passed all five milestones. Among 30-year-olds in 2000, according to data from the United States Census Bureau, fewer than half of the women and one-third of the men had done so. A Canadian study reported that a typical 30-year-old in 2001 had completed the same number of milestones as a 25-year-old in the early ’70s.

The whole idea of milestones, of course, is something of an anachronism; it implies a lockstep march toward adulthood that is rare these days. Kids don’t shuffle along in unison on the road to maturity. They slouch toward adulthood at an uneven, highly individual pace. Some never achieve all five milestones, including those who are single or childless by choice, or unable to marry even if they wanted to because they’re gay. Others reach the milestones completely out of order, advancing professionally before committing to a monogamous relationship, having children young and marrying later, leaving school to go to work and returning to school long after becoming financially secure.

Even if some traditional milestones are never reached, one thing is clear: Getting to what we would generally call adulthood is happening later than ever. But why? That’s the subject of lively debate among policy makers and academics. To some, what we’re seeing is a transient epiphenomenon, the byproduct of cultural and economic forces. To others, the longer road to adulthood signifies something deep, durable and maybe better-suited to our neurological hard-wiring. What we’re seeing, they insist, is the dawning of a new life stage — a stage that all of us need to adjust to.

JEFFREY JENSEN ARNETT, a psychology professor at Clark University in Worcester, Mass., is leading the movement to view the 20s as a distinct life stage, which he calls “emerging adulthood.” He says what is happening now is analogous to what happened a century ago, when social and economic changes helped create adolescence — a stage we take for granted but one that had to be recognized by psychologists, accepted by society and accommodated by institutions that served the young. Similar changes at the turn of the 21st century have laid the groundwork for another new stage, Arnett says, between the age of 18 and the late 20s. Among the cultural changes he points to that have led to “emerging adulthood” are the need for more education to survive in an information-based economy; fewer entry-level jobs even after all that schooling; young people feeling less rush to marry because of the general acceptance of premarital sex, cohabitation and birth control; and young women feeling less rush to have babies given their wide range of career options and their access to assisted reproductive technology if they delay pregnancy beyond their most fertile years...

Continue Here for Full Article

Read.Digest.React.

Summer Highlights

2010-07-27T22:28:00.000-04:00

Well the Sun is heating up & the Summer is going by in a Flash! My work basically takes up ALL of my time these days.. but I still have some time to own it.

The 4th of July was MAGICAL. I went to Bradley Beach, NJ with friends & watched the 4th of July fireworks in Asbury Park. They were by Far the best Fireworks I have seen in YEARS.

I just finished reading "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck recently - Yowza - It was Amazing. If you haven't read it yet, start now. It will make you think about your relationships in a whole new way.

My Fiance & I just started reading "The Good News About Sex & Marriage" by Christopher West. So far So good.. It is very thought provoking. I will keep you posted on that one.

Saw "Inception" this past weekend. My Review: Brilliant movie - nothing like you have seen before. A perfect escape from the sweltering heat.

Next up: we are off to Minnesota for my future Bro-in-Law's Wedding! BONUS: I get to stay with CLARE the whole weekend!!!

Keep it cool this summer people. Keep Owning it. & Challenge yourself everyday.

4th of July @ The Real Jersey Shore

2010-07-02T15:46:00.001-04:00

I'm off to the Shore this weekend to celebrate the 4th - One of my FAVORITE holidays.

Time to celebrate freedom & independence! Have a bbq & watch some Fireworks! I LOVE being an American - especially on the 4th of July.

I am heading out of the city for a quick trip down the shore.

No I won't be mingling with the likes of Snooki or The Situation.. No I wont be doing any fist pumping...sorry to disappoint.

Instead I will be relaxing to the max with friends at the beautiful Jersey Shore!

I will be laying out on the sand - reading - playing some volley ball - watching some fireworks & keeping an eye out for festive bathing suits.

I hope for your sake that your 4th of July weekend is HALF as great as mine is bound to be...

Till next time, keep on Owning it.. Thank God for your freedom.. And Be PROUD if you are an AMERICAN!

Life Without Limitations

2010-06-30T23:13:00.003-04:00

On Sunday I did a 5 Mile Race in Central Park. It was for Achilles International.

I first learned about Achilles, when my brother decided to run a race with them a couple years ago. My brother is an amputee who lost his leg to cancer in 2003. There was a time when I didn't know if he would ever walk let alone RUN again. But he did not let the cancer define him, he did not stop being the active, inspiring man he always was. He has since inspired many people in my family to start running, including me. It feels sort of lame not being active, when your brother who is an amputee is out running races - talk about motivation.

On Sunday, while my brother was running the race for his 3rd time, my sister & I volunteered to help out another participant. Did you know that blind people run races? Did you know that 5 year old kids with prosthetic legs run races? Did you know that people who have no muscle use in their legs can run races by using their arms in special carts?

We helped a girl who is 23 and has a disease that causes her muscles to deteriorate. She has to be in a motorized wheelchair everyday of her life. She was able to do the race by sitting in a special chair that operates by her pumping the wheels with her arms - it's called a Hand-cycle. She has to pump the wheels to get up all the hills, but then can zoom down the hills as fast as the wheels will go. She gets to fly - she speeds past all of the runners as she goes down the hills - & is free as a bird.

We helped guide her up the hills & encouraged her all the way. She never gave up, even when the hills were long & the pace was slow from her tired arms. She kept going & going & going. Every time runners would pass by they would cheer her on & shout out her name.

We finally made it to the finish line & there were hundreds of people waiting. Runners who had finished, people off the street who came to watch, family & friends supporting their runners - all there at the finish cheering & clapping, pushing us to keep going & to cross the finish line. It was an unforgettable moment. The emotion I felt was overwhelming - seeing this young woman give all she can to keep going, seeing how supportive people can be - like we are all in this together, was truly incredible. It was humanity at its finest: Selfless, encouraging, full of love, and this girl so full of strength... in a word it was Beautiful.

How can I be inactive, when some people would do ANYTHING to have a fully working body? How can I complain about trivial problems when I have SO much going for me in my life? How can I go one day without thanking God for my health?

Sometimes I forget. Sometimes I forget how blessed I am to have my health. My own brother needs a prosthetic leg to walk & I still forget. I forget how much he endures, because he has so much strength & so much appreciation for his life. He doesn't sit on the sidelines & say "poor me". He doesn't complain. He doesn't stop living his life.

He & many others like him..live life with hope & without limitations.

The Theory of the Dipper and the Bucket

2010-06-26T22:14:00.014-04:00

"Each one of us has an invisible bucket. It is constantly emptied or filled, depending on what others say or do to us. When our bucket is full, we feel great. When it is empty, we feel awful.

Each of us has an invisible dipper. When we use that dipper to fill other people's buckets ~ by saying or doing things to increase their positive emotions ~ we also fill our own bucket. But when we use that dipper to dip from others' buckets ~ by doing or saying things that decrease their positive emotions ~ we diminish ourselves.

Like the cup that runneth over, a full bucket gives us a positive outlook and renewed energy. Every drop in that bucket makes is stronger and more optimistic. But an empty bucket poisons our outlook, saps our energy, and undermines our will. That's why every time someone dips from our bucket, it hurts us.

So we face a choice every moment of every day: We can fill one another's buckets, or we can dip from them. It's an important choice ~ one that profoundly influences our relationships, productivity, health, and happiness."

Did You Know IT?

2010-06-25T12:32:00.001-04:00

Watch.React.

"I love Technology..." - Kip

M.O.H.

2010-06-24T13:38:00.000-04:00

I finally got around to asking my SISTER/Bestie4Life to me my Maid of Honor!!

She knew it was coming - but I wanted to make it semi-special when I asked her so it took me a lil time. Now that we have decided to wait until May 2011 for the wedding & have found the place we Hope will be the venue..I have more time to start ~~breathing~~ focusing on the fun things..like asking Maria to be my MOH.

So I made her a photo-book to document our life together as sisters & now as besties. Believe it or not, she & I were not always this close. Oh yes there were many years of arguing, teasing & tattle-tailing. But luckily, those years are over now & we are as close as Lindsay Lohan and her ankle bracelet!

Here are some of my Fave pics from over the years...you're welcome!

I am SO glad she said YES!!! love it.live it.own it. xoxo

Wishing on a Star*

2010-06-22T16:50:00.002-04:00

Last night - On the Summer Solstice, I took a walk with 2 of my Besties.

We walked around the reservoir in Central Park at sunset. The weather was perfect, the view was incredible & the company - even better.

Living in the city, we don't get to see many stars. But as the sky grew darker last night, we got to see quite a few. We think we may have even seen Venus!

We all held hands & looked up at the Stars & simultaneously made a Wish!!! ***

Yes I did feel like I was a 7 year old making a wish with my Besties... & Yes I quite enjoyed it. That little moment wishing on a star was perhaps the best moment I had all day.

Sara Haze - Lovely Full Song with Lyrics

2010-05-27T13:14:00.000-04:00

Heard this song yesterday and thought it was sooooooo good! Wanted to share with all you LOVELY ladies!

Love these!

2010-05-27T12:10:00.001-04:00

Saw these 2 sweet quotes in the past week and had to share them--they're beautiful! Keep owning it!

"A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ, that a man should have to seek Him first to find her." Max Lucado

The best way to speak about God is to thrive in the life He calls us to live. (From Rita's email)

an owner-mini putting us all to shame

2010-05-24T08:12:00.002-04:00

in case you just crawled out from under the same rock that I live under:

A "Real Size" Woman Owns It

2010-05-18T12:49:00.004-04:00

I read this article about the size of models. About whether "plus-size" models are actually a "real size".

I think this model is anything but "plus size" as she poses for Glamour mag (a fave of mine). And she is totally owning it in her classic sexy bikini pose. Crystal Renn may wear a larger size than I do, but she looks better in a bikini for sure.

I wasn't really owning it in that last line, was I? Maybe I should take a bikini pic of myself to post. That was a joke, you can keep dreaming. I will be buying a new tankini this year (looks like a one piece but is way more convenient for those of you who haven't tried it) and owning it at the beach, sundeck, park, and wherever I can decently wear it.

Check out that article- it's short, I promise. What do you think?

Powerful Beyond Measure

2010-05-13T12:11:00.003-04:00

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”-Nelson Mandela

Coming A.L.I.V.E.

2010-05-11T21:25:00.002-04:00

I came across this amazing quote again today...

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

Howard Thurman

I want to be ALIVE!!!!

No One's Lauging at God in a War

2010-05-06T10:55:00.000-04:00

lovin this song today.had to share.

promise i will resume posting soon - been a hectic couple of weeks.

Owning my Anxieties!!

2010-04-30T14:40:00.003-04:00

Just thought I'd share since I emailed this to a couple people today :)

This week I did something scary....I talked to the senior girls at the Highlands School---where I went from 6-12 grade! I told them my story about the break in (briefly, no need to scare them to the point of not sleeping!!!) but centered the talk more around being safe at college, etc. I think it went REALLY well though I was terrified! My sister Virginia came with me and her baby Moses so that helped. I had spoken to the girls about careers and what to major in at college about a month or two before the break in, so this was kind of like a follow up…we didn’t talk about the most important thing-safety! Being aware! Being around alcohol and parties etc! Not being in the safe haven where you trust everyone! I told them about making good friends, surrounding yourself with people you can trust, and not just trusting anyone. Anyways, things are going REALLY well, and I think I’d like to do more talks like that…hopefully I’ll be less sweaty/nervous next time ;)

photo by my cousin @ Julie Wilhite Photography

Nice & Easy

2010-04-28T10:58:00.000-04:00

I am a longtime fan of Frank.. Frank Sinatra of course.. There is nothing like the feeling of strolling down a Manhattan street on a beautiful day - listening to a Fave Sinatra song on my iPod. Sometimes I pretend it is the soundtrack to my personal movie (on a great day). But enough about me.

This song is SO what I needed to hear this AM. In a world of GO GO GO.. it is nice to have a friendly reminder from Frank to slow it down once in a while.. and Take it Nice & Easy...

Song of the Day!

2010-04-22T11:14:00.004-04:00

Can't Get this Song OUT of My Head today....

How cute is this lil teen? - this version is a lil more Techno-ish, but it certainly makes me wanna sing in front of my mirror..dance around my room..use a hair brush as a microphone..u know.. just saying.. enjoy

Solidarité

2010-04-16T09:34:00.007-04:00

No Sex Please, I'm Neal McDonough...

2010-04-15T14:34:00.000-04:00

I found this article to be Quite interesante & had to share it with you...obvi

Neal McDonough is a marvelous actor who elevates every role he plays, whether it's in Band of Brothers or Desperate Housewives. So when he was suddenly replaced with David James Elliott 3 days into the filming on ABC's new series Scoundrels earlier this week, there had to be a story behind the story. The move was officially explained as a casting change. But, in fact, McDonough was sacked because of his refusal to do some heated love scenes with babelicious star (and Botox pitchwoman) Virginia Madsen. The reason? He's a family man and a Catholic, and he's always made it clear that he won't do sex scenes. And ABC knew that. Because he also didn't get into action with Nicolette Sheridan on the network's Desperate Housewives when he played her psycho husband during Season 5. And he also didn't do love scenes with his on-air girlfriend in his previous series, NBC's Boomtown, or that network's Medical Investigation. "It has cost him jobs, but the man is sticking to his principles," a source explained to me. You can't help but admire McDonough for sticking to his beliefs, even if he's poised to lose as much as $1 million in paydays for Scoundrels, which is based on the New Zealand series Outrageous Fortune centering on the matriarch (Madsen) of a family of criminals who decides it's time for her brood to go straight after her husband (McDonough, now Elliott) is sentenced to a long prison term. ("I thought these things only happened to women in LA!," a source mused.) - Article By Nikki Finke (No Sex Please, I'm Neal McDonough...

read&react por favor

...I'm just saying - whoa - way to Own it Nealster! Way to stand firm to your convictions. love it... love it~! What a Catch u r!!

Alas..sigh....oh ABC - how disappointing - yet totally status quo... shame shame.

I need a Mani-Pedi Like it 's nobody's Business!!

2010-04-14T12:23:00.001-04:00

Is it Just me..or does spending money you can't afford - to have someone esle paint your toes & nails - just make things better!?

Ever since I have been on this SUPER savings budget for our wedding (no there is no date).. I have had to SERIOUSLY cut back.. ok cut OUT my spa fixes! No more manicures on the regular - no more trips to the local cheap nail place for a $20 mani/pedi & a LONG massage to make all my stresses disappear. Nope.

Lately I have painted my own nails - and not shown my toes to anyone. Lately I have endured neck aches, back pain & normal stress that is usually cured by these frequent trips to my favorite nail spa. The number of massages I was getting had already decreased greatly after my favorite Masseuse, Tom, went back to Thailand... oh Tom.. oh the memories....he used to charge $10 for a "10 minute" more like 20 minute Massage of a LIFETIME.... but since he has left the country - those days are over. And now with the money so tight, my days of Mani/Pedis are over too.... sigh......UNTIL....... wait for it......Tomorrow NIGHT!!!!!!!

Yes that's right! This weekend I am going to FL for my friends Wedding!! And HELLO there is no way I can show up in black tie attire, wearing new/fabulous open toe shoes(recently purchased from Bandolino's) without being polished! Wouldn't you agree??!?!?

Therefore I am reaching into my wallet & dishing out the well spent $20 (plus tip of course).... and treating myself to some relaxation & Polished nails!!! Any local gals are welcome to join.  You know a spa experience just isn't the same without serious gabbing...(see below)..

oh & in case you were wondering how I afforded the new shoes..thank u for asking. Well my BFF aka my sister Maria (who is on a serious mission to revamp my ~~shoe collection~~ pile of old shoes)..gave me new shoes from Bandolino's for Christmas, which didn't quite fit - so i got to (finally) exchange them for a HOT new pair of shoes for this upcoming wedding season! Thanks Again Uptown Girl... for trying to make over this upper-eastsider's feet - one fabulous shoe at a time.

Yay for ME!

Quotes help me through..

2010-04-12T17:13:00.000-04:00

I am not a patient person. I want what I want - when I want it. period. When I have to wait for something - or when I realize that MY plan is the THE plan.. I often get anxious or frustrated. I am learning how to accept things - to be patient - and to make the most of the extra time I have...but sometimes I just NEED a quote....

“Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.”

“Patience and fortitude conquer all things”

“Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things - with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope.”

“The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen.”

“The secret of patience is doing something else in the meanwhile”

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

1 Year Anniversary

2010-04-06T16:05:00.004-04:00

Br. Paul threw an "Irish Party" in the hospital- I stopped him from dying my IV bag Green!

It got a little rowdy! :)

Br. Damiano!! (he gave me his hat and glasses for the pic! Guess I wasn't looking my best! )

World Class Patient :)

Dave!

My brothers- being my brothers!

Seeing my Dad!

Today is the one year anniversary of having my appendix out! Now that doesn’t seem like the noteworthy anniversary- but for me it was a life-changing experience! On Monday April 6th 2009 I was living in Comayagua, Honduras. The day happened to be Monday of Holy Week, and started with a 4 hour trip up to the mountains to drop a team off for the Semana Santa mission. 2 hours into the trip I began to vomit uncontrollably and started having this pain that felt like a really bad flu, it began to worsen as the hours passed. I was determined to make it to drop off the team; it is not easy getting 12 people up to the mountains! But as I got worse and worse Carol, the head of the mission in Honduras decided I needed to get to a doctor, and found a way to get the team the rest of the way up(I think they rode a chicken bus  ), and we began our descent home. Unpaved roads, a bumpy truck, and vomiting- I’ll leave it at that! MJ and Carol cared for me and loved me as we stopped every 20 minutes on the side of the road.

After a very eventful trip to a hole in the wall clinic- a few shots- and a Doctor who was “a bit shady” to say the least, we finally made it back to Comayagua. I went for all different tests and came to the hospital to see Dr. Eleana, where after reading the results told me that she had called the surgeon because she thought it might be appendicitis! I had never had an IV before let alone surgery! I have assisted in OR’s in Honduras- and there is no comparison between them and the US standard of care. I sat there and realized what she had just said, and I felt fear like I never have before. I lay on the examining table as the Dr’s spoke- and could hardly believe that I was going to have surgery in Honduras! I started to Freak Out to say the least! Dr. Eleana who is a dear friend told me that she would sit with me through the whole surgery but that I needed to calm down- she brought me into her office and as I walked in the door sitting there IN A CLINIC- IN HONDURAS were my Dad, Greg, and Dave!

I BURST into tears! They had been planning to surprise me for a few months, and happened to arrive the day I got Appendicitis! To be comforted by “my boys” the three most important men in my life was unbelievable…literally. All of a sudden the thought of going through surgery in a third world country was still scary but BEARABLE- I was not alone! If you know my brothers and my Dad- They kept it real…squeezing my IV bag so it would “go in faster”, and just being them! My Dad was with me before surgery (Greg and Dave were killing a lamb with the Friars for Holy Thursday dinner!) and the last thing the Doctor said to my Dad was “25 minutes and we’ll have her out! It’s a really short surgery!” Well, a little over 2+ hours later they wheeled me into the recovery room. As it turned out my appendix had ruptured. He quickly opened me old fashioned style (a nice 4 in. scar to accompany the other 1in. one he had made first!). When I woke up he asked me why I had to be so complicated! So a one day hospital stay turned into 4.

During those 4 days I experienced Semana Santa in a new way. There weren’t pain meds like we have at home, and it was a really hard week. I remember waking at 3am the night after surgery not realizing I had been crying until Dr. Wilmer- an incredible man-father-and Doctor was wiping the tears from my face. So many moments of thinking I just couldn’t do it…feeling so helpless on top of the pain. But looking back I know one thing. I was able to experience a small portion of the pain that so many of my patient’s in Honduras experience daily. The uncertainly- lack of medicine- magnitude of the number sick and small numbers of doctor’s who will see them. I understand some portion of that. I am able to love them and serve them better because I KNOW them. A year later looking back the raw pain and the fear have blurred but what stands so vibrant is the reality that I was not in control, and had no control over what happened that week. But I do know that somehow while God was trying to find a cure for Cancer and dealing with World Peace He knew that I was in Comayagua, Honduras. He knew that I was so afraid and I needed my Dad and brothers- and He orchestrated the whole thing! I know LOVE.

Every time I see this scar I not only remember the fear and pain, but more so the faithfulness of God. 2 weeks after surgery the incision became infected, and they were deciding whether to open me up again, but I should not have been surprised when a wound care specialist “happened” to be on a mission in Honduras that week- and Christine Songy gave me the best of care! As I went for my last visit with the surgeon he commented to me how fortunate I was, how many other directions this could have taken. I can only thank God- a year later- for showing me the fragility of my life. I was given a gift, and now I’m trying my best to live it OUT LOUD! Nothing held back! So on this One year anniversary I want to say thank-you!

Uptown Girl has Raw Ownage

2010-04-05T18:32:00.002-04:00

I just want to give a lil SHOUT OUT to my sister/our fellow Own it Gal: Maria Aka: Uptown Girl

Serio - Do u follow her Blog?? Did you read her Post on Friday? Go HERE.

She is Amazing. She not only talks the TALK - But she Runs The RUN!
She inspires me in So many ways... And I am SO proud of her for running the 10K on Saturday.

Maria loves to set goals & challenge herself. Starting with her bday or new years, she likes to set new goals for the coming year & work towards something great. One of her BIG goals for this year was to run a 10K..and yowza - it is only April! Talk about follow through.

Maria has shown - by example- over and over that we can DO anything we set our minds to.

We can CHANGE who we are - we CAN face our fears...and no Matter what the hurdle is in front of us - we CAN overcome anything & own it.

In the past couple of years... This Uptown Girl has relentlessly battled her insecurities - She has overcome a lot of & major heart breaks - She has turned against her self doubt & Major people pleasing tendencies - and because of her Courage & Ferocity - She has Become this INCREDIBLE - Sassy- Authentic- Gorgeous - Athletic - Strong - Hilarious - Determined - And Inspirational Woman.

This is what I call RAW Ownage!

I am So Proud to be her Sister & her Bestie

Free Fallin

2010-03-30T11:41:00.006-04:00

So i just wanted to share a little ok BIG triumph that came to me the other day whilst doing some writing in my journal/soul searching....Exactly 5 months ago today i packed up my car to the brim and started my drive from Warren, NJ down to Nashville, TN. Now this may seem like big whoop, but this is coming from the girl who wouldn't even sleep over the friends house across the street when she was younger cause she would get home sick : ) I was kinda having a hard time this past week just missing home and friends and really feeling down and asking the question What am i even doing here and what has this time done for me?? Then amidst all this feeling of defeat....it came to me I DID IT.......I conquered my fear of leaving the known and going into the unknown. I was remembering my first time going off a diving board and literally taking me about 30-45 minutes to get from the board to the water clinging onto it for dear life not trusting that my dad would actually catch me, then the relief when i finally released and fell into the unknown and how all this fear i had built up in me was washed away so quickly. Now i feel as though i can jump from the highest mountain. The Lord asked me to leap for the trillionth time and this time for some reason my super stubborn spirit did not get the best of me and i leapt......It has been hard at times but i have been blessed more so then ever before! Today i celebrate owning the fact that i have CONQUERED this life long fear : )

Doo dah doo..

2010-03-30T11:07:00.000-04:00

Morning Everyone.. Today is GROSS outside here in NYC... and I personally think work should be canceled. Just because I really dont think it was fair that I had to get out of my comfy cozy bed this morning - only to face Tons of rain & gushing winds!!! Ew... After all...

ahhhh I digress.. I just can't win today - work wins every time. Well to brighten my day a little bit - & to forget about the rain outside, I will be turning up the speakers in my office. I'll be DIMC (Dancing In My Chair) -Obvi.. Gotta listen to good tunes to bring back some joy into my rainy day.... I love this one - makes me smile... ttyl - Stay Cozy!

A little perspective...

2010-03-27T13:17:00.006-04:00

Check out this amazing speaker Sean Stephenson...

All You Need Is Love

2010-03-26T10:06:00.001-04:00

So Simple. So True.

(provided by Keep Calm)

Embrace Love.Share Love.Be Love.

Develop an Attitude of Gratitude

2010-03-24T18:02:00.000-04:00

When you are having trouble Owning it.. A quick fix is to think of 3 things you are GRATEFUL for.

"When you are grateful - fear disappears and abundance appears"

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow "

"Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation."

"Gratitude is a vaccine, an antitoxin, and an antiseptic"

“God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?"

One more for the Road...

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."

Read.Digest.Repeat...beGrateful.

Morning Prayers

2010-03-23T11:50:00.002-04:00

“We must take great care never to do anything before having said our Morning Prayers…The devil once declared…that if he could have the first moment of the day, he was sure of all the rest.” (St. John Vianney)

If it's FREE - It's For Me!!

2010-03-23T10:57:00.000-04:00

Well hello there ladies.. (and gentlemen too)..

Who doesn't love ice cream??.. And furthermore who doesn't love FREE ice cream!!?!?!?

"Free" & "Ice Cream" are 2 of my FAVORITE things in the world!! Well lucky me - bc today at Ben & Jerry's (yum) Nationwide - it is FREE CONE DAY!!!!!!

That's right - from 12 PM - 8 PM TODAY we can stop in and get a free treat from our fave ice cream stop.

Personally I am head over Heeeels for their "Sweet Cream & Cookies" Flavor- maybe it sounds simple and not as exciting as some of their other creations.. but it is PERFECTION. Today is just one of those days that dieting and calories simply must fall to the bottom of my priorities list.. it is practically a National Holiday after all. What is YOUR favorite Ben & Jerry's Flavor? For a whole list of options go here!

ENJOY!!

Charity: Water's Latest Project

2010-03-22T10:26:00.001-04:00

Unshaken - charity: water's campaign for Haiti from charity: water on Vimeo.

CHECK THIS OUT....

2010-03-18T22:14:00.006-04:00

This video says it all. Be conscious of what society is telling us and recognize your beauty just the way you are!

The Climb

2010-03-18T14:59:00.005-04:00

Maybe it's because I have been overwhelmed lately..

Maybe it's because I live WAY to much in the future...

Maybe it's because I try to CONTROL everything & don't Trust God enough...

Maybe it's because there is a good chance I am PMS-ing :)...

Maybe it's because I have had many convos with single friends lately about their struggles waiting for THAT guy to come along...

Maybe it's because I just started the daunting task of planning a wedding on no budget & have been filled with Anxiety...

Maybe it's because my very painful family situation is about to hit another Bump in the road...

Maybe it's because I have been working nonstop lately & feel drained...

Maybe it's because I have set many goals for myself that I am NOT Living UP to...

Maybe it's because I am focusing too much on "What is going to Happen?" & "How will it turn out!!??"...

OR, Maybe it is simply because I haven't been OWNING IT...

But for SOME reason.. This song moved me to tears today.

I always liked it... despite the fact that I am Not a big Miley fan.. But today it spoke to me like no other day.

No matter WHAT it is in my life.. I am looking towards something!! I am either planning for it - dreading it - waiting for it - hoping for it - or just thinking IT will be Life Changing.

OUR LIFE IS SPENT IN THE NEXT MOMENT.. looking to the next thing. Whether we think it will make us SO happy or we think It will be SO big & stressful. We focus on the destination & not the Journey.

"There's always going to be another mountain

I'm always going to want to make it move

Always going to be an uphill battle,

Sometimes I'm going to have to lose,

Ain't about how fast I get there,

Ain't about what's waiting on the other side

It's the climb"

Why am I focusing on tomorrow when I have a perfectly good Today!? Why do I focus on the What IFs? I think I have to control it ALL. I have to figure it ALL out today and plan everything out perfectly. I have to Know the next step - See exactly where I am going - and Resolve that I will relax Later.

This is NO way to live. This is no way to Own it. I need to soak up today for what it is & TRUST that God has gotten me this far & isn't Going Anywhere. I have to trust that In those NEXT moments - Even the really scary ones.. that God will be there WITH me.

I need to stop focusing on the Negative thoughts - I need to Tell my FEARS goodbye!
Because Seriously - I can DO this. But not on My own.
I need to say:

HERE God take my struggles - take my fears - Take My what IFS - Take My Hopes - Take My plans - Take My future- Because YOU can carry them and you can LEAD me up that mountain. If I climb with you I can make it to the top in one piece - and I can actually ENJOY the view on the way.

Here's to hope. Here's to Faith. Here's to LIVING in today.

I am taking a break here & taking a look around... I am soaking up today for what it is. And as luck would have it - the Sun is BRIGHT outside.

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift"

The Littlest Own It Girl with some BIG Ownage

2010-03-13T16:24:00.003-05:00

A friend of mine sent me this article a few days ago, detailing an amazing story of a small girl who followed the theme that we all talk about and strive for. Owning It. The short story is about Nujood, a 10 year-old girl, whose father arranged for her to be married to a man in his mid-thirties. Her husband was physically and sexually abusive towards her and treated her as a slave and animal. She knew this was not right and snuck away to find a judge and get divorced, not at all a common practice in her native country, Yemen. She has gone on to write her memoir as a 10 y/o divorcee and has now inspired other young girls in similar situations to do the same.

I think her story merits a bit more time and attention than we usually offer- as she has not been afforded the many privileges and comforts that we often forget are not universal in all countries and societies. Such as equal rights for women, equal opportunity to education, financial stability, societal approval of independent women, and laws protecting minors of sexually exploitative relationships.

Nujood exemplifies a different kind of "Owning It". A lot of our experiences with Owning It relate to taking risks, improving our self-esteem, finding meaning and value in our lives, and remembering what is important. And don't be mistaken- these are all great things!! But Nujood was owning her future, her life, her safety and essentially Owning the future path for other girls in her same circumstance.

She saw truth when all the people around her told her to believe otherwise and tried to convince her of the lies. She stood firm and sought out what was good and right, even when the people closest to her allowed her to enter into a relationship that was wrong and dangerous for her. by herself. alone. as an individual- she went up against religious practices, societal expectations, unequal gender roles, deep-seated cultural norms, the disapproval of her community, and her abusive husband. How scary to challenge and stand firm against all of this at only 10 years and in a society and culture that does not support her!

I, as all of you, try as much as I can to Own It in the best way I know how: the little every day things. Accepting compliments. Taking risks in my career. Not complaining and looking for the good. Accepting feedback, even when its hard. Helping others. Pushing myself and not giving in.....Just to name a few. And when I think of the magnitude of Nujood's situation and the choice she made in her life, for her life- I am not only inspired, but moved, even compelled to Own It. I realize that there are SO many examples and models to follow and be motivated by, I have no excuse but to keep at it- even when its really hard!

My admiration goes out to Nujood and the girls that have followed her for Owning It- when her life depended on it.

You learn and learn and learn...

2010-03-12T11:24:00.005-05:00

“After awhile you learn the subtle difference between holding a hand and chaining a soul. And you learn that love doesn't mean security, And you begin to learn that kisses aren't contracts And presents aren't promises. And you begin to accept your defeats with you head up and your eyes open. With the grace of maturity, not the grief of a child. And you learn to build all your roads on Today because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plans, And futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight. After awhile you learn that even sunshine burns if you get too much. So you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul, Instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers. And you learn that you really can endure... That you really are strong And that you really do have worth. And you learn and learn and learn .... With every goodbye you learn.”

I Get To Marry Him!!!!!

2010-03-11T18:12:00.002-05:00

YES - you heard correctly: I Am Engaged!!!

I couldn't be more BLESSED to have found him..The Love of My LIFE: Leyland.

He proposed in Central Park as we were strolling through on a perfect Saturday afternoon. We had gone to brunch earlier, then popped into the MET for a couple of hours. Afterwards, he suggested we walk through the park since it looks so gorgeous right after it snows.

Leyland had his laptop bag with him that day, and had told me he might have to go into work later on. Turns out there was a blanket in there NOT a computer. He put the blanket down on some benches (covered in snow) and we sat down. He then gave me a Book titled "100 Reasons That I Love You" written & printed by HIM.

As I read through the book, I couldn't believe what was happening - and I was anxious to get to the end - but there were literally 100 pages!! Pages filled with inside jokes, sweet sentiments, and incredible words letting me know just HOW much he loved me. When I finished the last page, I looked up to see him kneeling on one knee in the snow staring up at me with his big green eyes. He said "Will you Marry me???" with the biggest smile on his face. I replied: "For Real!???" I literally couldn't believe what was happening. The next thing I knew he pulled out the ring & it took my breath away...

After that we went back to my apartment - where my roomies had set up dozens of bouquets of roses, candles & champagne - My Sister even had Our Song playing when we walked in!! There were clothes laid out for us in my room & we got all fancied up to go downtown to Alta (where we had our very first real date).

When we walked in I was Floored to see my FAMILY & friends all there waiting to congratulate us!!! This moment was truly incredible. I had always pictured getting engaged and being able to celebrate with my family right after - but never told him that. The fact that he planned it all for me.. down to the last detail - exactly how I always imagined - meant the WORLD.

The rest of the night was fantastic!! We went out in the village for some NYC dancing and partied the night away with friends...

Well there you have it. Our engagement story. The most unforgettable day! I am blown away everyday by him - and am certainly counting my MANY Blessings.

This is me.. on Cloud 9.. my new home. I plan to stay here for awhile. And I plan on Owning it daily. xoxo

Celebrate OUR Day!

2010-03-08T11:54:00.000-05:00

Did you know that today is Women's Day? Well it IS.

A brief history (Published by the United Nations Department of Public Information)

International Women's Day (8 March) is an occasion marked by women's groups around the world. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday. When women on all continents, often divided by national boundaries and by ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political differences, come together to celebrate their Day, they can look back to a tradition that represents at least nine decades of struggle for equality, justice, peace and development.

International Women's Day is the story of ordinary women as makers of history; it is rooted in the centuries-old struggle of women to participate in society on an equal footing with men. In ancient Greece, Lysistrata initiated a sexual strike against men in order to end war; during the French Revolution, Parisian women calling for "liberty, equality, fraternity" marched on Versailles to demand women's suffrage.

The idea of an International Women's Day first arose at the turn of the century, which in the industrialized world was a period of expansion and turbulence, booming population growth and radical ideologies. Following is a brief chronology of the most important events:

1909 In accordance with a declaration by the Socialist Party of America, the first National Woman's Day was observed across the United States on 28 February.

1910 The Socialist International, meeting in Copenhagen, established a Women's Day, international in character, to honour the movement for women's rights and to assist in achieving universal suffrage for women.

1911 International Women's Day was marked for the first time (19 March) in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, where more than one million women and men attended rallies. In addition to the right to vote and to hold public office, they demanded the right to work, to vocational training and to an end to discrimination on the job.

Less than a week later, on 25 March, the tragic Triangle Fire in New York City took the lives of more than 140 working girls, most of them Italian and Jewish immigrants. This event had a significant impact on labour legislation in the United States, and the working conditions leading up to the disaster were invoked during subsequent observances of International Women's Day.

1913-1914 As part of the peace movement brewing on the eve of World War I, women held rallies either to protest the war or to express solidarity with their sisters.

1917 With 2 million Russian soldiers dead in the war, Russian women again chose the last Sunday in February to strike for "bread and peace". Political leaders opposed the timing of the strike, but the women went on anyway. The rest is history: Four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote. That historic Sunday fell on 23 February on the Julian calendar then in use in Russia, but on 8 March on the Gregorian calendar in use elsewhere.

Since those early years, International Women's Day has assumed a new global dimension for women in developed and developing countries alike. The growing international women's movement, which has been strengthened by four global United Nations women's conferences, has helped make the commemoration a rallying point for coordinated efforts to demand women's rights and participation in the political and economic process. Increasingly, International Women's Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of women's rights.

to see what women are doing around the world on this day you can check this out: http://www.internationalwomensday.com/

I think it is PRETTY awesome that just last night the very first Woman won the Oscar for Best Director! An award I dreamed of winning as a little girl.

Congrats to you Kathryn Bigelow!!!!!!!!

Today especially - let's stop and take a look BACK at where we have been as a Gender...Look at the present to see where we are... And look to the FUTURE to see where we hope to be...

I personally hope for a future of women that are FREE to do anything - but Choose to do GOOD. I hope for a world full of Women that are Strong but delicate - Courageous but Graceful - Confident but Humble - Equal but Different... Women with Dignity, class & Ferocity.

A world of Women who Own it.

Our very own BRIDE to BE!!!!

2010-03-02T23:48:00.002-05:00

Can I just give a SHOUT out to our own "Own It" founder who is getting married!! And request that Ms. Liza share ALL the details with us who haven't heard them yet! I'm dying to know how your man did it! I am sooo excited for you and want to take a moment and celebrate, you, Liza, and this beautiful and exciting new adventure unfolding in your life!

commitment leads to action

2010-03-02T22:27:00.003-05:00

"Commitment leads to action.
Action brings your dream closer."
~Marcia Wieder

I'm not sure who Marcia Wieder is, but I am loving this quote, especially as it relates to the recent posts here on Own it. Time to take the actions that will lead to making dreams reality!

Motivational thoughts...

2010-02-24T15:49:00.003-05:00

Finally, I found something that I thought was worthy to share and post! Since the past few topics here on Own It have been about inspirations and motivating yourself... This quote always cheers me up and sets me straight. Enjoy! :-)

"Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. Look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. Think only of the best, work only for the best, and expect only the best. Forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future. Give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. Live in the faith that the whole world is on your side as long as you are true to the best that is in you!"

-Christian D. Larson

Adopting in Haiti

2010-02-24T15:09:00.006-05:00

Sorry for my lack of posting ladies! Mainly because I now post on four different blogs with different email accounts involved and it gets crazy! But I get so much inspiration from each of you so I want to make up for it:)

Here's a story you will love...

Michelle is a friend of mine from GA(I met her through Christina McShane). Her and her husband run LifeTeen at Covecrest. PLUS they have FOUR beautiful children. When they found about about two siblings orphaned from the earthquake in Haiti they felt the call to respond. After much prayer, they are in the adoption process. PLEASE read more here, and join the group to support them in this journey. I am telling you the story is amazing....

Inspiration is contagious - catch the Bug

2010-02-23T23:11:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I inspire someone without knowing it..and then THEY inspire me in return. What a FABulous cycle.

Tonight I read My friend John's Blog - he mentioned that I had inspired him, and yet in his post HE inspired me. and I loved what he wrote..so raw & so honest..here is a little exerpt:

"...its not that i have quit anything, its that i suddenly stopped doing the things i need to do to be successful. my eating and workouts, my finances, my job (am in a job situation where i need to find a new job since people are being let go)...like that U2 song says, 'sometimes we're stuck in a moment we can't get out of'
so i'm tired of feeling this way, not sleeping well to start, had a bout with kidney stones and honestly am kind of not motivated lately. i keep hearing that phrase,

don't wait to get motivated to act on something, but act on something in ORDER to get motivated.

and so that is what i am doing. when you're unhappy with your life its hard to write funny, witty and cheerful things day in and day out in a blog - yes my goal was to write that. but that is not very honest. i'm actually not very happy with the current quality of my life, the direction of my job, the condition of my health, the place where i am in my finances, my poor poor sleeping patterns and also my gf has mentioned i've been a bit irritable lately. so to her i apologize. but more so then that. i need to act on my life and take ownership of what i need to do. sometimes i'll make a promise to someone and not always follow through and i realize i tend to do the same to myself."

Way to put it out there John. Way to own your situation, and what you need to do to make it better.

We cant change anything in our lives until we decide that something needs to change. And we start making little choices EVERY day to help ourselves. We have to create the life we want...nobody else will do it for us.

Share your stories people.. put them out there. Be REAL with each other. true inspiration comes from true vulnerability. the human struggle is one shared by every race, gender & age.. When you find moments of motivation and strength never keep silent. You never know who needs to hear your inspiring thoughts.

Her Facebook status changed to "single?" Ur dumped

2010-02-23T18:02:00.000-05:00

read & react...

LONDON (Reuters) – Digital dumping is on the rise, according to a survey, with growing numbers of people preferring to use email and social networking Web sites to break up with their partners.

Over one third of 2,000 people polled (34 percent) said they had ended a relationship by email, 13 percent had changed their status on Facebook without telling their partners and six percent had released the news unilaterally on Twitter.

By contrast, only two percent had broken up via a mobile phone text.
The rest had split up the old-fashioned way by face-to-face conversation (38 percent) and by telephone (eight percent).

"Digital Dumping will soon take over when it comes to ending a relationship," said Sean Wood, Marketing Manager for DateTheUk dating service for whom the survey was carried out.

"It's often easier, quicker and avoids any misunderstandings."

For All My Single Ladies

2010-02-19T11:32:00.000-05:00

OWN it!

Haven't Met You Yet - Michael ...

How I Know My Diet is Working (Without a Scale)

2010-02-19T10:05:00.000-05:00

First & Foremost: By "diet" I do NOT mean -South Beach/Atkins/Zone/BeachBody etc etc etc. No thank you. Dieting the old fashioned way is just not for me. I don't live in a box, and I don't follow rules very well either. I enjoy freedom after-all. When I refer to MY "diet" I am simply referring to the way I habitually eat & drink.

Ok Ok now that we have that cleared up, I have some great news to share. In a recent issue of Self Magazine (which I love to read)... Carrie Underwood noted that what helps her stay on track is "Relishing" in her success! When she is doing well & seeing results she ENJOYS it & celebrates it!! I decided to heed her advice..since HELLO look at her - she clearly knows what she is doing!

So here is my news: I am losing weight/getting FIT & feeling better than ever!! - no not "I am going to lose weight" (aka starting now).. or "I lost weight" (hence I am done).

Ever since I read the book "Naturally Thin" - which I told you about back in the summer (see Here) My mind has significantly changed in the way I look at and approach Food. And Just Recently I decided - I can do whatever I set my mind to.. If I WANT to be healthier, more active, more fit & perhaps a little slimmer.. then I CAN DO IT...little by little..overtime...by changing some basic habits & making better choices everyday. Remember this Quote??

“In essence, if we want to direct our lives, we must take control of our consistent actions. It's not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.”

Therefore little by Little I have been trying to eat BETTER & Less, BUT With TOTAL control about what I eat & with ZERO Guilt about anything I do. ah the freedom.

And guess what?? It's working!! (here is where I RELISH in my success) I can't tell you I have lost 'X' amount of LBs..and frankly I don't care.. What matters is how I FEEL in my clothes & what I see happening!

Finally, I will share with You HOW I Know My Diet is Working (Without a Scale):

I can fit into "fresh out of the drier" Jeans..with little to no effort.
My friends have noticed my slimmer physique & have been motivated to eat better too.
Between Meals I get this Feeling called "hunger" (which I never really got before) :)
When deciding on an outfit I have SO many more options to choose from because I feel GOOD when I look in the Mirror.
I have Much more Energy, and don't feel as Sluggish & lazy as I normally do!

And My FAVORITE reason I KNOW my diet is working:

Last weekend I wore a snug fitting shirt out to meet my Boyfriend & friends.. and my guy said "Wow, you look great babe! Are you wearing those Spanx Things?"

ah....victory is mine.

Questions to Ask After 'I Will' but Before 'I Do'

2010-02-18T10:16:00.000-05:00

by Jeff D. Opdyke
Provided by:

All over the country on Valentine's Day, men were down on bended knee proposing marriage. They spoke of love and affection and devotion. Few, however, mentioned what really matters: money.

Crass, maybe. But true nonetheless.

When you think about it, couples don't fight over love. They fight over money. They fight because one person didn't balance the checkbook or made a bone-headed investment without consulting the other. They fight because one partner exerts dictatorial control over the money, or because one has secretly amassed thousands of dollars in debt on a credit card, imperiling the couple's finances.
Whether the issues are big or small, money will prove a powerful force impacting your marriage -- sometimes overtly in the form of routine arguments; sometimes quietly as animosities seethe beneath the surface for years, only to explode into a potentially marriage-ending supernova.

What couples don't always grasp is that money is rarely the real culprit. It's the lack of communication, often stemming from a lack of knowledge about each other's personal financial quirks and beliefs.
So, some time between "Yes, I will marry you," and "I do," you and your partner need to have The Money Talk -- the key questions all couples should ask of one another.

Here are four of the more important questions to ask each other, since they provide insight and information on how money will flow through your marriage.

1. What Are Your Assets and Liabilities?
This question is paramount because assets and liabilities are the basic building blocks of the financial life you'll live together. Assets (banks accounts, investments, retirement plans and a house) help you strive for the life you want. The liabilities (a mortgage, credit-card debt, auto loans and leases) will hold you back.
Your goal is to pinpoint where you are financially as a couple so that you can map out where you want to go together. That could mean determining how much you want to save each month for retirement, or how much you want to put into an account for a new house, a new car or an annual vacation.
It also could mean talking about how you each use debt and the amount of debt you each have -- and mapping out a plan to pay off as quickly as possible the combined debt you will have as a family.
The best way to approach this: Present each other with a copy of your net-worth statement, a simple list of all your assets and liabilities. And voice no judgments. Mocking a partner's choices will simply lead to future silence.

2. What Is Your Money History?
What you experienced financially as a child -- how your parents managed their bills, how they talked or yelled about money, what they taught you about saving and spending -- has shaped who you are today.
Problems arise in marriage because partners don't always see money from the same perspective. You might abhor debt for anything other than a mortgage, yet your spouse-to-be thinks nothing of putting lunch, groceries and the afternoon Slurpee on a credit card, and then paying the minimum each month and allowing the balance to roll over.

In talking to one another about how you each see money, you will begin to understand one another's money habits. That, in turn, will help you find a common approach for managing money successfully as a couple.
Neither of you will -- nor should -- get your way completely. Marriage is about compromise. A better understanding early on of how you each see and use money will give you the tools to find a middle ground you're each happy with when financial discord arises.

3. How Should We Divide Financial Duties?
In many marriages, one partner exerts financial dominance over the other, leaving the silenced partner anxious and angry. Other times, one partner shirks financial duties because of disinterest, leaving the other to shoulder the burden. Neither is fair.
Couples should determine how to divvy up the various financial obligations that exist. Maybe one takes charge of investing and the other balances the checkbook. Play to each other's strengths. If you're good at challenging bureaucracy, maybe you agree to handle the insurance companies and the medical bills.
The point is that you both have an obligation to the family's financial well-being, and both spouses need to be aware of the household's financial situation.
If one partner wants to opt out of the daily financial minutiae, that's fine, so long as the other spouse is OK with handling the full obligation. But even then, you need to remain aware of what's going on with the finances so there are no unsavory surprises.

4. Do We Combine Accounts or Operate Individually?
This is a divisive issue. Many financial pros argue that operating from individual accounts helps maintain marital peace. Since neither partner knows what happens in the other's account, there's no bickering.
Maybe. But it's far from perfect. Resentments can emerge if one partner is better at saving and always has money for larger, more meaningful purchases. Moreover, individual accounts mask the family's true financial position, which can hamper the main purpose of marriage: operating as a team.
If neither of you know how much money is really flowing through the individual accounts, nor how much is being saved and invested, then it's impossible to plan a future together.
That doesn't mean individual accounts can't work. They can. But they require a large degree of openness so that you can both work toward common goals.

Ultimately, all of these questions are about one thing: communication. Learn to talk about money early and often, and you can mitigate the financial tensions that are normal in all marriages.

~Read.Digest.Discuss~

love Love LOVE

2010-02-12T12:09:00.001-05:00

With Valentine's Day coming up, I thought I would reflect a little on LOVE & Relationships.

Love is the hardest, most complex concept of all. Real love is selfless. Real love is Scary! Real love is the most amazing gift of all time... but it takes work to achieve.

I am incredibly blessed to have an amazing guy to share my love with. He challenges me, supports me, loves me through & through..

AND above all He Makes me SMILE ALL the friggin time!

Here is a little glimpse of this amazing man. I left his shades on to protect his identity! ... Jk -I just like them

OK so regarding LOVE.
As I said above, it can be scary and complex. Even when you have found the one person you KNOW you are meant to be with - Love can stretch you to new limits.. can challenge your pride.. and can ask you to risk it all. That is why so many people say "I learned a lot about myself in that relationship". Being in a relationship is work.

BUT - if you can find someone who will DO the work with you - who is willing to change themselves for the better, challenge you to do the same, support you when you fall down, and love you NO matter what - - - then the work becomes a Gift - and the Love becomes something so much deeper and more fulfilling than you ever thought possible.

This song: "Without Love" really says it all. This song reminds me daily to love, to endure & to give of myself (even when it means being vulnerable to heartache)- because I know that at the end of the day - that is what LOVE is.. and that "work" & risk involved with being in LOVE..will continue to lead me deeper into the greatest love I have ever known.

Written & sung bye Grace Ellen (a friend from college & an amazing example of Owning It)..This song is the perfect way to kick off Valentine's Day Weekend.  

Listen.Digest.Repeat.

Buckle Up PSA

2010-02-09T18:05:00.001-05:00

This is a low-budget Public Service Announcement from the UK..sent to me by my BF (who finds the best videos b4 anyone else I know). It is generating quite a buzz..

I found it to be brilliant, creative & very powerful. Just watch.

Choices

2010-02-08T11:42:00.000-05:00

BIG ones. little ones. hard ones. easy ones. medium-sized-don't seem so important at the time ones. Choices are everywhere.

Every choice we make molds our mood, our day, our life.

Sometimes the choice is clear. Sometimes it is all so grey. When the right answer comes along sometimes the choice you make will stretch you to a new point of growth..and can be extremely difficult to do. Choices can be easy to make but hard to act on.

From eating to drinking - to loving to hating - to being happy to being sad. little to big - the choices we make define the life we will lead - the person we will be - the relationships we will have or lose.

MAKE GOOD CHOICES!

“Your life is the sum result of all the choices you make, both consciously and unconsciously. If you can control the process of choosing, you can take control of all aspects of your life. You can find the freedom that comes from being in charge of yourself." -Robert F. Bennett

I Love This Lady!

2010-02-04T15:44:00.001-05:00

Disgusted with the Cyrus Family.

2010-02-04T11:04:00.001-05:00

See my ann-tidote post today here to see why I'm in OUTRAGE!

food for thought

2010-02-02T22:55:00.003-05:00

Great minds discuss ideas;
average minds discuss events;
small minds discuss people.
-Eleanor Roosevelt

Women for Women

2010-01-29T11:03:00.003-05:00

So as i sat and read my People magazine this past week, one of the most recently "buzzed about" stories caught my attention.......

My Heart completely broke for her. She is 23 years old and she went through 10 plastic surgeries at the same time, to make herself feel beautiful and what does she say at the end "this is only the beginning of them". In the interview she goes on to say how Sex sells and the industry she is in is superficial and looks matter. We all knew this already but for me hearing those words actually come out of this girls mouth hit in a new way. It really struck me that this is the generation of women that are being raised up now...that is all they know or hear. We have a constant nagging at us to stay up with this "Beauty" that they promote.

Then just a few days ago i came across these pictures....

To me each one of these women posses such a unique power and beauty. They have not been tainted by the standards of beauty we are use to being judged by. But as i looked at each one of them they struck me as some of the most beautiful women i have ever seen. One of my girl friends recently introduced me to this website Women for Women ( www.womenforwomen.org )It is AMAZING and such a great mission. I wanted to share it with you all so we could continue to help the dignity of women around the world grow!!!

Read All About It!

2010-01-26T15:22:00.000-05:00

This just in.

I AM IN CONTROL OF MY LIFE! IF I WANT SOMETHING - I HAVE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. - this may seem obvious to you. but it is not always so clear and simple for me. sometimes I think my life will just HAPPEN.  or just CHANGE & be exactly how I want it to be.. without having to really DO anything about it. One roadblock I often face is Fear.  Fear is my most loyal 'friend' - that I cant Get RID of.  Its like HElloooo Feeeear -I said I was over you - so be a nice little bugger and GO THE F away! wink wink.kthxbye.

“In essence, if we want to direct our lives, we must take control of our consistent actions. It's not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.”.... is this why I don't have washboard abs? I mean, I dream big & I have sweetness goals.. but apparently I have to do little things EVERYDAY to make my goals a reality.... crap - what a set back.

 ALSO Did you know!? IF I FEEL cranky OR IN A BAD MOOD - I HAVE the POWER TO MAKE IT BETTER...I'm not even joking.  according to some smart ppl - if I feel like UGH or ICK or even FML!!! I can talk myself through it and choose to be happy, positive & UN-Ugh!..I can force myself to OWN it even when all emotions are telling me to do otherwise. (ok this one I know is true. I try to practice it on the regular).

and one more for the road... 

“The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.”

read.digest.repeat.

In memory of Molly

2010-01-24T19:45:00.004-05:00

I really am at a loss for words- tears are streaming down my face as I read of this "normal" college grad- Molly-a girl who wanted to serve the poor by doing a year of service in Haiti before starting grad school for Special Ed- She talks of missing grande peppermint mocha frappachinos... and taking the GRE- I can relate to her so much! My heart goes out to her family-oh the loss they grieve- but what a HERO! May we learn from Molly and may our lives be a response to the cries of our fellow men. Her life was changed by those she served- she gave her all- and literally laid down her life for a friend.

http://mollyinhaiti.blogspot.com/

DINE OUT FOR HAITI!

2010-01-22T11:12:00.000-05:00

Calling all New Yorkers..You KNOW you will be Eating out this weekend anyway, so why not try one of these places and help out?

Follow this link for a list of restaurants that will donate up to 10% of SALES from this coming weekend to charities for Haiti.

http://www.dineout4haiti.org/

I have been to a lot of the places listed.. but one I absolutely love and think you should try is Kefi

here are some pics from my last visit.

Bon Appétit!

Have a Little Hope...

2010-01-21T15:24:00.001-05:00

If today is not going your way..

If you don't fit in...

If you just heard bad news..

If you feel lost...

If everything seems doomed..

If you are riddled with anxiety..

If it feels unfair...

If no one understands you...

If you are overwhelmed..

If you are lonely..

Have a little hope.

Hope is not a dream but a way of making dreams become reality. Once you choose hope, anything's possible. Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier.Consult not your fears but your hopes and dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential.  Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what is still possible for you to do.Hope never abandons you; you abandon it. Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible. 

NO matter what it is you are going through today - Know that there ARE people who love you. know that PEACE is possible. Know that you are not alone. Know that happiness is a choice. Know that I am routing for you. Once fears are FACED - Once HOPE takes route in you...Once you choose to own it...your life will change... And I cant wait to hear how.

Help Haiti Now!

2010-01-15T11:37:00.000-05:00

If you're in NYC -

charity: water's office is a drop-off point for the following items that are most needed in Haiti right now:

Blankets*

Tents*

Soap

Feminine hygiene products

Sleeping bags*

Medical gloves

Bandages/gauze

Cases of bottled water

Please do not mail these items to theiroffice, but rather stop by during these times —

Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

IF YOU CAN CARRY THE DONATIONS BY HAND IN ONE LOAD: Please enter through the front door at 200 Varick St. You will need a photo ID to enter the building. They are located on the 2nd floor, Suite 201.you can drop off the following supplies at 200 Varick St

OR DONATE:

Redcross

Concern Worldwide

Partners In Health

I have no words....

2010-01-14T11:07:00.002-05:00

all we can do is pray & help however we can:

http://www.redcross.org/en/

http://www.concernusa.org/Public/News.aspx?Id=790

https://donate.pih.org/page/contribute/haiti_earthquake?source=charitywater

Handbook for 2010

2010-01-11T13:29:00.003-05:00

Hi ladies,

Thought you would enjoy this, these are awesome rules to live by!

Health
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants..
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need…
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you…
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change…
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come…
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Wishing you all a very happy New Year. If you get some time, check out my new blog! I am posting an awesome giveaway soon :-)

<3 Jenny May

Thank you thank you thank you

2010-01-11T11:51:00.003-05:00

Dearest Ladies (and Gentlemen) of Own It,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for devoting the past 3+ weeks of space on Own It to celebrating my birthday. I feel so loved.

But, please, the spotlight is beginning to hurt my eyes. Feel free to post about something else. I know it will be difficult to move on after honoring my special day for so long, but I truly believe that with a little bit of ownage, anything is possible!

With sincere gratitude,

Maria

UPTOWN GIRL'S BIRTHDAY

2009-12-18T09:55:00.001-05:00

The wait is OVER!!!!!!

Today is Uptown Girl's Birthday - We can FINALLY celebrate!

I can finally shower her with gifts and Someecards!

Every year - her birthday falls one week before JC's Bday!!

Coincidence? I think NOT.

This year - We have 3 celebrations planned.. all very VIP of course. We'll start tonight with Alice's Tea Cup (our traditional Bday Spot). We'll sip tea & champagne, munch on yummy scones and proudly wear our WINGS all the while.

Time will tell what else this weekend holds in store for Uptown Girl - that fabulous creature!!.. Be sure to send her your Birthday wishes.. and feel free to drop by anytime this weekend to the Upper East-side of course, where all the festivities will be held.

This has got to be one of my all time FAVORITE Holidays!!

SO HAPPY FRIGGIN BIRTHDAY UPTOWN GIRL - & Thank you for bringing SUCH joy to my LIFE!!!!

xoxoxo

OOPS!....

A little Update.

2009-12-17T15:24:00.002-05:00

So I really have been behind, but I've also been delaying posting this. Remember my last update on my case here? Well the update is that they put his DNA in the system (Codis) and there is no match. He's still out there, still free. The only way we'll catch him down the road is if he is brought in for something (stealing, what-have-you) and printed/etc. So, for now, I just sit. I am not waiting, though. I'm going to just let it go and hope that whenever the day comes that I do get some "news" on this character, I'm ready to hear it. Will it be when I'm driving to the grocery store with my daughters in the back seat? Or right before my wedding? Or when I'm collecting from my pension? Hmm...we'll see.

Thanks for all your prayers :) Love, Ann

Men, put on your pants!

2009-12-16T13:13:00.008-05:00

You've read correctly, Own It women want a man who wears pants and wears them well! But not literally, I mean in the figurative sense. We all agree that a man who is secure in himself and his manliness - basically who is owning it- is pretty darn attractive, right? Well unfortunately, over the years the lines have been blurred and understandings made unclear, which has resulted in ALL of us being somewhat confused about what it means for a man to "wear the pants" in society, work and relationships. And as much as we want women to be treated with equality, dignity and respect, we do NOT want it to happen as a result of taking those same courtesies away from men. But have no fear! It appears the tides may be changing and men are seeking the due respect and masculine recognition they so rightly deserve and need. Men are being encouraged to start wearing the pants again! Check out the new ad Campaign for Dockers here.

Pretty cool, huh? Remember that time? Or did our generation of men and women ever have that time? When men could really own their rugged, burly, non-plastic fork using, anti-salad red meat eating masculinity? I sure dont- the recollection is fuzzy and I'm psyched that Dockers is trying to bring it back. So support the ad AND your man owning his MANifesto! And you can start by letting the Daily News know its NOT sexist. Yep, they're trying to bash it already and the campaign has barely even started. Tell 'em in their poll on the right side of the article whatcha think and Own It for the true men in your life ladies!!!!

Advent Conspiracy

2009-12-08T18:16:00.001-05:00

http://mycharitywater.org/liza

NieNie

2009-12-07T16:06:00.003-05:00

I am sure most of you by now have heard of the NieNie dialogues.

If not, read this story, and you will know what I mean by INSPIRATION.

This woman continues to own it despite incredible tragedy.

xoxo Anna

Your guide to changing lives this holiday season.

2009-11-30T12:04:00.002-05:00

Each year, we get gifts we don't really need. Some we don't even want. America is about to spend another $450 billion to celebrate the holidays - that's enough to solve the water crisis several times over. People all over the world are giving up the gifts this year to give clean water to people in need.

Join the movement and launch your campaign today.

Give up the gifts, give people clean water and start changing lives.

If you don't want to start your own campaign - you can just give me a great gift by donating to MINE! (and feel free to direct other people there too!).. send them this link: http://mycharitywater.org/liza

Special Thanks

2009-11-25T12:15:00.002-05:00

Well here we are again - Thanksgiving..and the onset of the Holiday ~~Chaos~~
Season..in a BLINK. It seems that the years are flying by faster than ever before. With every holiday comes new traditions, new memories & new drama (obvi). But before the festivities begin & before I eat so much turkey that my jeans no longer fit.. I wanted to take a moment to say how thankful I really am.

Things I am ESPECIALLY thankful for this year (in no particular order):

My Fabulous Roomies & my Amazing Apartment!
Leyland: My patient/supportive/wonderful/loyal boyfriend aka man of my dreams!
The creation of so many fun blogs:

Finding out about & being able to be a part of Charity: Water
The Book Naturally Thin by Bethenney Frankel
The inspiring words of Claire Gaudiani
The changes & growth we are starting to see on Own it!
The founding of my Book Club!
The fact that I have a job when so many others don't.
Email & Cell phones that keep me connected to close friends even tho we are MILES apart!
Gchat ***
My Family - no matter how far apart we are (ahem.. India/Arizona/DC/NYC/FL/OH/NJ etc).. we find away to stay connected.
New followers on Own it..whoooh
New Authors on Own it: Alexis & Clare <3
Therapy
Good Books - and my new found ability to finish them! my latest read
People who make BOLD moves & never stop surprising me: Maria. Ann. Rose. Anna. Quense (just to name a few)
God - and how He has truly blessed my life beyond my expectations
iMeem baby. imeem. my latest playlists can be found here
My very best very awesome very loyal BESTIES. u know who u are.
Free time at work to blog today!

Military Style?

2009-11-13T15:02:00.004-05:00

What's everybody feeling about the military look?

Sorta liking this...

Thoughts?

I'll take it!

2009-11-05T11:18:00.004-05:00

Ok for some reason I'm having a wonderful day! I woke up for a "fast walk" with my friend Kristen and my tires showed warning signs (I have a smart car apparently). That didn't get me down! We had our walk, then I went to Starbucks. I got my skinny vanilla latte and with a smile from everyone! Then I went to the Firestone and got some air in the tires. The guy was SO nice, said the air was as free as the air you breathe---ok I'll take it! Got to work only five minutes late, and I'm in the best mood! Who knows why but I'll take it! LOL.

Just thought I'd share that.

Maybe Regina is to blame?

Eet

It's like forgetting the words to your favorite song

You can't believe it

You were always singing along

It was so easy and the words so sweet

You can't remember

You try to feel the beat

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet, eet, eet, eet

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeteeet, eet, eet, eet

You spent half of your life trying to fall behind

You're using your headphones to drown out your mind

It was so easy, and the words so sweet

You can't remember

You try to move your feet

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet, eet, eet, eet

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeteeet, eet, eet, eet

Someone's deciding whether or not to steal

He opens the window just to feel the chill

He hears that outside a small boy just starting to cry

'Cause it's his turn but his brother won't let him try

It's like forgetting the words to your favorite song

You can't believe it

You were always singing along

It was so easy and the words so sweet

You can't remember

You try to move your feet

It was so easy and the words so sweet

You can't remember, you try to feel the beat

Exercise Doesn't = Weight Loss??!!

2009-11-05T10:42:00.000-05:00

Morning my little fabulous own-its out there in blog-land. I hope this Thursday finds you well! My Thursday has been rough from the start.. Nobody deserves to wake up to Drilling and hammering in the Early AM!! NO ONE I tell you!

(Inhale.. Exhale)...

Anyhizzle, despite the 234 things that went WRONG this morning (all before 10 AM).. I found this little gem, this little glimmer of hope to brighten my day..

I stole this video from My sister-in-law's Blog - Could it be true?? Watch and give your opinion. Afterall, in MY book - YOUR opinion is the only one that matters!

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Define Own it

2009-10-29T11:27:00.000-04:00

What does OWN IT mean to you?

In a word.. a sentence.. a paragraph...

Give me your thoughts! Open your mouth!

This Woman's Work

2009-10-27T12:00:00.002-04:00

The video below is from last spring so a lot of you probably saw this... but maybe not. It is a Tribute to Breast Cancer that was beautifully choreographed into a dance on "So You Think You Can Dance". The dance illustrates the profound struggle between this couple, as they try to combat her disease. The song in the video "This Woman's Work" is by Maxwell... But I personally love the new version by Greg Laswell - I strongly suggest listening to the whole song with the volume way up; letting the words sink in. For anyone who has dealt with cancer in your family, this song may effect you in a deeper way (at least it does for me).
Lyrics can be found here.

Let's say the things we should say, do the things we should do.. to show the people we love just how much we actually need them.

It's Been a Year

2009-10-24T08:52:00.006-04:00

So I cannot believe it. Here I am, the anniversary of the worst day of my life. And today might be one of the best days! I'm in a wedding and before that, my sister is hosting a brunch for me this morning. The brunch started out a lot like this day last year. We'll invite 5 or 6 people for coffee and fruit. Then it turned into more like 20 people. :)

Last year I remember when my sister Audra told me she was on her way. I said "on your way?" and she said "are you KIDDING?" and hung up on me :) Then my mom in the hospital said "I'm going to go call ___ and ___ and ___" and I said "what? why?" and she said "you need their prayers". I paused as she was walking out the door and said "Mom? Go ahead and call ___ and ___ and ___too." She smiled and did it.

I didn't realize that I needed everyone to get through this. I am not good at asking for help (still working on that...) but I didn't even really realize I needed it until everyone stopped what they were doing and came running! My sisters, my nephews, my best friends, my cousins, old friends and neighbors...I received more cards, flowers, cupcakes, balloons, fruit baskets, and cookies than I thought possible. But I needed it all. I told my sister Audra that night "I didn't know that I needed you" and she said "I wish it had been me".

When I was in the hospital I remember moaning to mom that I don't want this, I didn't ask for it, I was doing just fine before this. Well, I was fine, but who wants to just be "fine"? Today I'm happier than I thought possible after such a short year. Everyone helped pull me out of this. I have so much more goodness going on in my life today that I wouldn't pick last year over this year. I'll take a few bad nights of sleep and a few bad memories over a life of living "fine". I guess you could say that I lived life looking through tinted glass, and now I that I truly see, I wouldn't ever go back.

Corina is here this weekend. We just woke up and said "I can't believe it's been a year". We started to reflect on all that has changed. I moved home, then bought a condo. I quit my job and got a new one. She's pregnant. My sister's pregnant. My other sister had a baby and they moved back here. Everything has changed! Everything is BETTER! God takes these horrible situations and turns them into the most beautiful gifts imaginable. I am thankful for all of this.

So, thank you to family, friends, and even strangers who have thought of me this year. Please continue to pray for me as the journey is not (and may not ever be) fully over.

"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world"
-John 16:33

Response to "It's Time"

2009-10-23T16:51:00.011-04:00

I’m Alexis. 23. NYC. I finally decided to make my first post with some encouragement from friends of course. Liza's post on "It's Time" really hit me, and I couldn't stay quiet anymore :-). So here I go....

“Women have made it permissible for men to disrespect us. Women have made it OK for men to treat us like men. Women have tried to become like men - denying emotion, heart, dignity, purity etc etc. Somehow in the fight to gain recognition as equals in the work place- we sold our gender short... Way short.” – Liza’s words from It’s Time Post

That quote I pulled was HUGELY impactful - something EVERYONE can relate to... no matter your beliefs - empowering women to realize it is in OUR control.

We (as women) created this society, and we have to stop BLAMING men....
We trained men to think this, that we want to be treated like men in work, in life, in relationships. We fought so hard to be equal that we lost everything else that is important to us. We lost respect for ourselves.... how can men respect us if we can’t even be clear on our needs and if we don’t even respect ourselves.

What I think the root of the problem is: Us setting unrealistic standards for ourselves and our relationships. Men think we want to do everything ourselves - we don’t need them - so they have NO responsibility anymore, but for themselves… and therefore we are treated that way.

We went so beyond equality. But we DO need men. We can't be everything.

We need to all start setting realistic expectations and change the way society views women’s roles. And we need to decide what those roles are.... or whether we need to have such SET roles.

Men aren't the enemy. We have TOLD them that we are self sufficient and don’t need them. (Assuming they would read into that and KNOW we didn’t mean it literally). But that’s not how it works, and they took it literally, and now here we are YEARS later.

Men and women think completely differently. And so we need to start taking control of ourselves and our actions and realize that. Realize that we can change it back to something more realistic, and we don’t need to be SO head strong and say we don’t need them for anything. Men do need to "feel" needed, as do we... We need to go back to some primal ideas. Remember that men were hunter-gatherers and inherently wanted to protect us? And women were the nurturers....This doesn’t mean we can’t work.... or do anything we ever wanted to do.

We need to realize that LOVE is a choice... and we need to love ourselves first. We need to Own it.

My Response....

2009-10-23T08:44:00.007-04:00

I have thought back to that night many a time- I actually journaled that night we talked for hours in a friends backyard- looking back i wrote "...let it begin with me- do I believe in this dignity and my VALUE as a woman... how can I be the BEST version of THERESE FLOYD that there is!....I want to see my sisters grow up with CONFIDENCE in who they are and who they have been created to be!" I truly believe that the seeds planted that night- are coming to fruition- I look at the women we all have grown and are growing to become in these past 2 years- I LOVE to see the change we have undergone....some through life circumstance- others through suffering and tragedy that we never dreamed ourselves capable of- and others through innumerable joys- like recent promotions- weddings and now motherhood!

My life is changed- I feel as though everyday I spent in Honduras this past year convinced me more and more to fight for this cause- this cause for TRUE identity- the strength and grace that women have and NEED to bring to the table! Liza- my heart is on fire after reading your POST- we need to answer these stirrings in our hearts!

It is time we take ACTION! We have spent a beautiful two years affirming and inspiring EACH OTHER- now empowered we have an obligation to take it to the nations! I am 100% ... we need a brain-storming session- and then we need to pull back the dam- to let the floodgates of our minds- passion-creativity-and love flow forward! We WILL be the change we wish to see in our society!

Let's Roll.....

As Pope Paul VI said ...

"...the hour is coming, in fact has come, when the vocation of woman is being achieved in its fullness, the hour in which woman acquires in the world an influence, an effect and a power never hitherto achieved. That is why, at this moment when the human race is under-going so deep a transformation, women impregnated with the spirit of the Gospel can do so much to aid mankind in not falling...Women- you do know how to make truth sweet-tender- and accessible, make it your task to bring it into institutions, schools, homes, and daily life. Women of the entire universe, whether Christian or non-believing, you to whom life is entrusted at this grave moment in history, it is for you to save the peace of the world. "

A few Women (Big and Small who OWN-IT...and teach me to as well!)

One of the Mom's in Honduras caring for her baby...

Dona Maria- Look at that smile! Owning her IT!

My sister's- Learning how to OWN-IT!

My Inspiration!

My parents- My Mom SO Own's It!

One of my girl's at the HIV clinic- Look at her OWNING-IT!

It's Time

2009-10-22T01:41:00.003-04:00

When I first launched Own it I had a lot of ideas.
I had a lot of convictions that I wanted to set in motion; convictions to change the world. I had dreams of a world where women of all ages knew their worth. A world where children didn’t learn about oral sex in grade school. In this perfect world young girls would be raised to be virtuous, by men and women who themselves were virtuous. Everyone would OWN IT.

I wanted our world to stop the lies. I wanted to show young girls that they don’t have to put out to stand out. I wanted to share my thoughts and ideas with other amazing women, so we could inspire each other to not only own it in our daily lives, but to think of ways to spread these positive messages across our social networks, our communities, our world.

It was about 2 years ago at a backyard party in NJ when I spoke with Mary, Therese & Kathleen about these ideals. They immediately reciprocated these convictions and we talked for hours. We talked about injustices in the world of sex and dating, about the lies we are told from youth, about the travesty of men these days. We agreed that the goal should be to educate, motivate & empower women. We didn’t know how but we certainly knew why. Then I set out to make a Blog just to have a starting point. Yes this simple old blog about owning it. A place where women of like minds could converse, share and support one another.

And that is where we are today.

The time has come where I have realized this is not enough. Not by a long shot. I still have those same dreams I told you about above – but now they consume me in a way that I can no longer ignore. The time has come to tackle this thing called life – one cause at a time – and make a difference. I’m not talking blog a little with your gal pals difference. I’m talking BIG.

“If we don't change our direction we're likely to end up where we're headed.”

I’m afraid to think of where we could be headed. Just some stats that may keep rising and rising: Divorce rates/std rates/abortion rates/Avg.sexual partners per lifetime/…Broken Hearts

I went to a fascinating talk tonight by Dr. Claire J. Gaudiani called “Social Entrepreneurship in America: Women’s Work Since 1780”. It would take hours to fully delve into everything this talk was about – but what I can tell you is this. I am just one person with ideas. You are another person with ideas. Together we can call upon other people with ideas and so on. Gloria Steinem was one person with an idea – that generated a lot of opinions/ideas/support from like minded people. Together she and other feminists changed our country significantly. We have jobs because of them. We are treated equally in the work place, we have the option to stay home, work or even do both because of women like them who demanded change.

Unfortunately for us & for our little sisters.. they took it too far. In their fight to make us equal they tried to make us the same. But we are NOT the same. “The worst form of inequality is to try to make unequal things equal.” -Aristotle

Women have made it permissible for men to disrespect us. Women have made it ok for men to treat us like men. Women have tried to become like men - denying emotion, heart, dignity, purity etc etc. Somehow in the fight to gain recognition as equals in the work place- we sold our gender short... Way short.

We need to change the direction our society is headed for the sake of our daughters. I want my daughters to have the option to work, to stay at home, to do whatever they want!! BUT I also want my daughters to live in a world that celebrates the beauty and the uniqueness of women. Not a world that squashes true femininity as weakness or prudeness. I want them to grow up seeing strong women, professional/capable women, who are also virtuous women. When did it become Uncool to have dignity?

There is no plan here.. no steps I have ready to lead you.. I need You to help me formulate them. I need your ideas, your skills, your talents.. to help us formulate a goal – a plan – an agenda – a movement. For those of you who don’t want to share on the blog with your ideas – email me. Until next time – Own it ☺

Clare is Here to stay!

2009-10-21T18:36:00.000-04:00

WELL WELL WELL... check it out my fellow Owners... Clare (a longtime bff from college) is now joining the ranks of Own it Authors! Check out her pic down below if you don't know her..but I think almost all of you do!

Quick Stats:

Clare is a Newly wed - her hubby's name is Dan
They live in MN and she has a fab career!
She is sweet as pie, smart as hell, and happens to be one of my favorite dancers! ;)

Well I could go on.. but I gotta run.. Say hi to Clare and give her a nice OWN IT welcome! Clare, we expect you to be posting soon!

PS - that reminded me - I think everyone needs a lil intro.. Roll Call coming soon
OK now get back to owning it

Absolutely amazing....still shaking!

2009-10-21T10:02:00.001-04:00

So, the detective just called me about my case that, if you follow your calendars, happened one year ago from this coming Saturday! I thought she was calling to check on me with the anniversary coming up, but no. She said that usually the DNA processing takes up to 18 months, but they rushed my case. So, they were able to get some DNA from my foot (don't ask). Turns out it matches an extremely similar case that occurred one week after mine, blocks from my old apartment. She was not so lucky.
What happens now? The DNA is reviewed (along with both cases) by the DNA analyst before it is entered into a system called Codis, first in my state, then in the US. The review can take a month, but it will take days if there are any "hits" on this person once it is entered into Codis.

This is amazing. I am a bit stirred right now, just knowing that he is still out there, but I could reach a completely peaceful point if this turns out the way I hope it does. Keep me in your prayers Saturday (is that selfish to ask?), and throughout this new process.

"Be content with what you have, for God has said, "Never will I leave you; Never will I forsake you". So say with confidence "The Lord is my Helper; I will not be afraid."
-Hebrews 13:5,6

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11

Everyone loves a find

2009-10-15T18:38:00.001-04:00

doo dah doo.. you're welcome in advance. Just to prove that I too can find fun fashion for you gals... (ahem)..

here we have a former thrifter extraordinaire turned web guru.. bringing the fun of random finds to the web. whether its a vintage tee from the local thrift store, or an up and coming designer found at a trade show... Mod Cloth scours the globe for fun finds so we don't have to.

Now since this is My first attempt at sharing little fashion secrets with you I can't divulge everything all at once. But here we have a TREASURE trove of fun.. I am almost sorry to let this secret go because once this cat is out of the bag.. not many fun finds will compare.

I give you Shop Style. Here you can pull all sorts of items from different designers/brands/price ranges etc and mix and match. You can create your own looks and share them with other lovers of fashion. for example, here is a look I made over the summer called "Easy Weekend Bag":

Now just because I love you gals so much - I am also sharing with you some of my personal FAVE finds...that I like to drool over and pretend that I can afford whenever I feel like it. As you can see I have a little addiction for jewelry more than anything else... doo dah dooooo... enjoy

The End ... Now stop salivating and get back to work!

Urban Dictionary

2009-10-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Urban Dictionary has an entry for "own it"?? I'm oddly excited by this fact and had to share immediately.

Own it: Taking pride in what you got.

This sports-related-example is given: "Sox fans shouldn't get all hung up on chanting "Cubs suck", they shouldn't even acknowledge that there is a second team in town - Own it!!"

I.Love.IT

Have a great day and keep owning it!

[pic belongs to YWCA]

Help Me Change the World!

2009-10-13T11:47:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone... I just started a campaign for Charity:Water - you have prob seen the videos I have been posting about them. Please check out my page and make any contribution you possibly can - literally ever $1 helps.
Think about this:
$20 means one person can get clean water for 20 years.

http://mycharitywater.org/liza

Spread the word!!

Sand Animation

2009-10-13T09:48:00.000-04:00

Own It

Bachelorette Weekend

Thoughts during Lent.

Operation Beautiful!

You Are More..

Our Very Own Own iT Girl: Wins "Best Start-Up" Pitch at Entrepreneur Expose'

Kathleen won! Not only is she a single mother who constantly inspires those around her... She can BAKE! :) Look at what they're saying about her at blog.NJ.com. So Proud of you Kath!! xo

Bundt Blessings wins "Best Start-Up" Pitch at Entrepreneur Expose'from http://blog.nj.com/Published:Tuesday, December 07, 2010, 9:27 AM by Melissa Gasnick Cloeter and Linda Wellbrock/Business

For more information on Bundt Blessings, please visit their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Morristown-NJ/Bundt-Blessings/123869310532?v=wall. For more information about Entrepreneur Expose events, please visit our site at www.entrepreneurexpose.com.

Taking "Stock"

New Issue of Radiant Magazine

I want to change the world - Instead I sleep

I love New York

Talk about owning it...

"I choose my own way to burn" - Sophie Scholl

Playing For Change.. Around the world

35

The Guy That Says Goodbye to You is Out of His Mind...

Keep Calm...

Radiant Fall Issue is Here!

What Is It About 20-Somethings?

By ROBIN MARANTZ HENIG (NY Times)For Full Article Click Here Published: August 18, 2010

Summer Highlights

4th of July @ The Real Jersey Shore

Life Without Limitations

**The Theory of the Dipper and the Bucket**

Did You Know IT?

M.O.H.

Wishing on a Star*

Sara Haze - Lovely Full Song with Lyrics

Love these!

an owner-mini putting us all to shame

A "Real Size" Woman Owns It

Powerful Beyond Measure

Coming A.L.I.V.E.

No One's Lauging at God in a War

Owning my Anxieties!!

Nice & Easy

Song of the Day!

Solidarité

No Sex Please, I'm Neal McDonough...

I need a Mani-Pedi Like it 's nobody's Business!!

Quotes help me through..

1 Year Anniversary

Uptown Girl has Raw Ownage

Free Fallin

Doo dah doo..

A little perspective...

All You Need Is Love

Develop an Attitude of Gratitude

Morning Prayers

If it's FREE - It's For Me!!

Charity: Water's Latest Project

CHECK THIS OUT....

The Climb

The Littlest Own It Girl with some BIG Ownage

You learn and learn and learn...

I Get To Marry Him!!!!!

Celebrate OUR Day!

Our very own BRIDE to BE!!!!

commitment leads to action

Motivational thoughts...

Adopting in Haiti

Inspiration is contagious - catch the Bug

Her Facebook status changed to "single?" Ur dumped

For All My Single Ladies

How I Know My Diet is Working (Without a Scale)

Questions to Ask After 'I Will' but Before 'I Do'

love Love LOVE

Buckle Up PSA

Choices

I Love This Lady!

Disgusted with the Cyrus Family.

food for thought

Women for Women

Read All About It!

In memory of Molly

DINE OUT FOR HAITI!

Have a Little Hope...

Help Haiti Now!

Bundt Blessings wins "Best Start-Up" Pitch at Entrepreneur Expose'
from http://blog.nj.com/
Published:Tuesday, December 07, 2010, 9:27 AM by Melissa Gasnick Cloeter and Linda Wellbrock/Business

By ROBIN MARANTZ HENIG (NY Times)
For Full Article Click Here Published: August 18, 2010

The Theory of the Dipper and the Bucket