I saw this cute lil graphic pinned
In some cases it pays to procrastinate. Today is one of those cases. The winner of the Starbucks giftcard Giveaway (based off a random.org drawing) is the very last entry, number 54:
Friday, September 30, 2011
Starbucks Giveaway Winner
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thankful Thursday V1.5
Oh my goodness.
This week has come and gone (almost) so fast!
I have had various things that I wanted to blog about, but just didn't have the time. Between work and physical therapy, I have been busier than usual. I guess physical therapy time used to be my blogging time and now I am having to find balance with that. PLUS, when I get off work early enough, I'd have time to catch up on blogs and blogging, however, when I work long days (10-12 hours) I am pooped when I get home. I know I am quite behind on some of my favorite blogs. Boo!
BUT, it IS Thursday and I am making time to give my thanks! I hope you give thanks as well, daily, for your blessings that are too numerous to count.
things I am thankful for this week:
♥ Carmen giving me tickets to The Joy FM's 25th anniversary concert. If you want to read more on this, and how I was blessed with free tickets please be sure to read my post that I did a few days ago. I am thankful for any time I get to go and fellowship and throw my hands up while singing praises. ♫♪ Cause I don't want to live like I don't care, I don't want to say another empty prayer, Oh, I refuse to sit around and wait for someone else, to do what God has called me to do myself, I could choose not to move, but I refuse - Josh Wilson.♫♪
♥ The Pioneer Woman's cookbook. Fabulous! Sadly, I had never cooked home made cornbread until this book. This week I cooked some chicken fried steak. Mmm.
♥ Friday nights with friends. Last Friday I went to a local free (can you tell I like free?!) Improv put on at a local college. Funny stuff. Afterwards, we all went and had breakfast for dinner at IHOP. I got my regular, Rooty Tooty Fresh & Fruity! Mhm!
♥ My cousin had a yard sale to benefit Kidney for Kristy Friday & Saturday and she made $111 to go towards the $5000 she needs by the end of October. To read more on this, click the Kidney for Kristy tab at the top of the blog.
♥ The Heather's Hope walk to raise awareness about domestic violence went well. To read more about this event, click here for my post after walking the 5K on Saturday.
♥ That Ryan & his father got to attend the Bucs VS Atlanta game on Sunday. Yay for quality father/son time.
♥ FBCH ministry that the young adults at my church are involved in. Participation has kind of dwindled over the past year, however I sent out an email to everyone letting them know it was make or break time, if everyone was going to continue to keep cancelling, we were going to have to end the monthly fellowship that we do with that. I'm happy to say it appears no one wants to let it just die out, SO, we are going to switch our visit day from a Wednesday night to a Thursday and see how it goes. I'm hopeful!
♥ Friendship with exes. I am still best friends with my high school sweetheart. We dated on and off for about eight years, with a one year engagement in the mix. After our break up we were able (after a few months) to maintain a great friendship. We were together for so long, we are still part of each other's families. His mother and him were both in attendance at my wedding, as well as his grandparents sent gifts and well wishes. To be able to maintain this kind of friendship after a breakup is such a beautiful thing and I am so thankful. Many don't understand, and I don't expect you to, BUT, I am so very blessed that my husband DOES understand, and he has even become friends with my ex as well.
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| Thanksgiving 2010. My ex even joined our family for Turkey Day |
Those are some of the things *I* am thankful for this week. What about YOU?! Please link up and share! :)
OH! Today is the last day to enter the September Giveaway for the $20 Starbucks giftcard. Click the GC icon in the upper right to be taken to the entry page! I will announce the winner tomorrow! Good luck!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
The Joy FM's 25th Anniversary Concert
EEK - I promised this would be posted on Sunday, and it's now Tuesday. Oops. Sunday & Monday turned into super busy days at work. Sunday was a 12 hour day. And today I had doctors appointments as well as work. Busy bee. BUT, onto my exciting news from Saturday.
Saturday night I had the opportunity to enjoy The Joy FM's 25th anniversary concert in Clearwater, Florida. The Joy FM is a Christian radio station that I listen to daily. They just celebrated 25 years of helping people find joy. It's MORE than music. They DO help me find JOY everyday.
Being able to attend this concert was such an amazing blessing. The tickets were given to me by Carmen, one of the morning hosts. WHAT A SWEETIE. Do you want to know how it went down? You wouldn't even believe it.... all via good ol' twitter. Yup! You read that right... Here's the story:
I saw the following tweet from Carmen:
carmen: at taco bell tonite& saw fam getting n car w/joy fm decal. pulled over and gave em tkts to 25th annv concert. dad started crying. precious. of course when i 1st walked up, the mom threw up her hand to say "i'm not interested in what you're selling!" haha. we gotta good laugh --- sept 21st 1024pm
I wrote back:
heather: aw, carmen! you totally made their day! -- sept 22nd 10pm
I got a simple reply that made my week:
carmen: thanks! do you want to go too?! :)
REALLY?! Did that just happen?!
Yup! It sure did! Carmen left 4 tickets at will call for myself, my Dad, roommate and DaisyJo. There were actually 5 tickets, and my husband was supposed to go, but he hurt his back yesterday and stayed home to rest so he could save up energy to go to the Buccaneers game Sunday with his Dad. It was SO hard to leave my husband at home, in pain, but he insisted that I go and enjoy my blessing! and he stayed at home and watched the Gators play. and ordered pizza :)
We got to enjoy Audrey Assad, Josh Wilson, Britt Nicole, and Brandon Heath.
SOOOOO STINKIN' AWESOME! :) Warning: the rest is picture heavy.
Seth Rollins (who happens to be FROM central Florida) from American Idol season 9 opened up...
followed by the soothing voice of Josh Wilson who uses a loop station which is so cool!
followed by Britt Nicole's energetic, fist pumping, jumping up and down performance...
***
Saturday night I had the opportunity to enjoy The Joy FM's 25th anniversary concert in Clearwater, Florida. The Joy FM is a Christian radio station that I listen to daily. They just celebrated 25 years of helping people find joy. It's MORE than music. They DO help me find JOY everyday.
Being able to attend this concert was such an amazing blessing. The tickets were given to me by Carmen, one of the morning hosts. WHAT A SWEETIE. Do you want to know how it went down? You wouldn't even believe it.... all via good ol' twitter. Yup! You read that right... Here's the story:
I saw the following tweet from Carmen:
carmen: at taco bell tonite& saw fam getting n car w/joy fm decal. pulled over and gave em tkts to 25th annv concert. dad started crying. precious. of course when i 1st walked up, the mom threw up her hand to say "i'm not interested in what you're selling!" haha. we gotta good laugh --- sept 21st 1024pm
I wrote back:
heather: aw, carmen! you totally made their day! -- sept 22nd 10pm
I got a simple reply that made my week:
carmen: thanks! do you want to go too?! :)
REALLY?! Did that just happen?!
Yup! It sure did! Carmen left 4 tickets at will call for myself, my Dad, roommate and DaisyJo. There were actually 5 tickets, and my husband was supposed to go, but he hurt his back yesterday and stayed home to rest so he could save up energy to go to the Buccaneers game Sunday with his Dad. It was SO hard to leave my husband at home, in pain, but he insisted that I go and enjoy my blessing! and he stayed at home and watched the Gators play. and ordered pizza :)
We got to enjoy Audrey Assad, Josh Wilson, Britt Nicole, and Brandon Heath.
SOOOOO STINKIN' AWESOME! :) Warning: the rest is picture heavy.
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| My Ticket :) |
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| This lady blessed me with free tickets :) <3 |
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| it was IMPOSSIBLE to get a non blurry pic of me and my Dad |
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| DaisyJo, myself & Ash :) *hello freckles!* |
Seth Rollins (who happens to be FROM central Florida) from American Idol season 9 opened up...
followed by Audrey's soft and beautiful voice...
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| Jo & Audrey |
followed by the soothing voice of Josh Wilson who uses a loop station which is so cool!
followed by Britt Nicole's energetic, fist pumping, jumping up and down performance...
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| Britt Nicole & Ash |
and the ever so talented Brandon Heath wrapped the night up :) <3
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| he called all the kids up to the front stage :) |
And then, to close, they all sung a song together <3
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| Britt was not captured in this shot, but she was there :) |
THAT was my wonderful, blessed, Saturday night. <3
Don't forget: you can enter the Starbucks Giveaway through this Thursday.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Heather's Hope - 5K to raise awareness about Domestic Violence
Okay, okay. I know I just said yesterday that I was taking today off from blogging but I just had to share the 5k with you. It was such an INSPIRATIONAL morning. There is so much HOPE out there for women that are going through this. It's hard to even realize just how many women go through this. Especially if you have never been in the situation, you don't realize just how often it happens. I personally have been blessed and have never had to go through a domestic violence situation, BUT, like most, I know someone who has. And it was and is horrible. So many are silent sufferers though.
This last one is actually one of my favorites. It hits me because in my personal experience with people that I know that have been through these type of situation, they have all of these "feelings" but often have not reached the point of realizing that just by letting go of it all, they can release themselves, and be free. Free from physical and emotional abuse, free of all of the above feelings, just free to be happy again. The orange balloon says "degraded, bruised, mad", the pink says "isolation, emptiness", red says "tired, rage", yellow says "confused, controlled", blue says "lonely, sad, shame", purple says "broke heart", and green says "hurt, pain" and the bottom is a female wearing a survivor shirt, letting go off all the balloons and emotion. She is ultimately setting herself free.
This sign says "Why women stay". Why doesn't she just leave?! It's the first question people ask. And here are some of the answers:
Hope: she hopes it will get better. maybe they can get help. maybe she will make him happy again. maybe it will just stop.
Shame: she is ashamed that it has came to this, that she allowed him to treat her this way. that she has taken him back so many times.
Money: she doesn't have enough money to start all over again. she has never been employed or does not make enough money to support herself and her children. shes scared to try to make it alone.
Fear: she is terrified. he has told her that she better never try to leave him. he says that he will find her no matter where she goes. he says he will take the kids and run. he says that he will track her down and kill her. she knows he means it.
On the Heather's Hope page they list these as increased danger signs or red flags:
- Abuse happens more often
- Abuse gets rougher
- There is a gun in the house
- Abuser uses drugs or alcohol
- Abuser threatens to kill self or others
- Abuser hurts or kills pets
- Abuser is jealous, suspicious, or possessive
- Abuser gets into fights with other people
and these as first steps to take:
- If leaving is not an option make a safety plan
- Call Police if you are being abused
- If it is safe, keep a journal of the abuse
- Attend a support group
- Call the state domestic violence hotline to discuss options : 1-800-500-1119 (this is for Florida)
- The NATIONAL hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE
I pray that if anyone reading this is currently involved in a DV situation that you would take time to sit back and really think about your situation and get the help that you need AND deserve. If it's a loved one suffering, just continue to be the best support that you can be. Always encourage them. Everyone deserves to live a happy life and be treated with unconditional love and respect.
Today's walk was put on by the Heather's Hope foundation. Heather is the aunt of one of my friends, and Heather lost her life in 2008 in a tragic incidence of domestic violence. The family is doing amazing things in Heather's name to raise awareness.
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| Me & Whit, Heather's neice |
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| My walking partner DaisyJo and I :) |
I was honored to be able to hear our Sheriff, Grady Judd, give a speech today. He was already set to be the guest speaker, and then after the events of last week, where one of his "right hand ladies" at work was brutally killed in an act of domestic violence, this event hit even closer to home for him. It goes back to silent sufferers. He had NO clue his always smiling coworker was going through issues at home.
Grady Judd talked stats. He talked signs of abusive that we could all look for in our loved ones that may be silent sufferers and he gave examples of what women will do to protect the very one who IS abusing them. An example was last year, his team was called out to a house with a domestic complaint. They got there, talked to the female first, asked her if her husband had any guns, she said no, so they proceeded. As they went to enter, he came out aiming a gun at them, ready to fire. His team shot and killed the suspect. They asked the woman if he'd had the gun before, and she said yes this time. When asked why she didn't just tell them that he was armed, she claimed "I didn't want him to get in trouble"... Well, now he IS dead. The team would have approached the situation totally different had they known he was armed. While she was actually trying to protect him, it ended up getting him killed. This is just one example of what women go through to protect the very man who harms them.
I took a few pictures today that struck me.
Here are some shirts that others designed.
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| a world torn upside down due to DV |
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| DV stats |
This sign says "Why women stay". Why doesn't she just leave?! It's the first question people ask. And here are some of the answers:
Hope: she hopes it will get better. maybe they can get help. maybe she will make him happy again. maybe it will just stop.
Shame: she is ashamed that it has came to this, that she allowed him to treat her this way. that she has taken him back so many times.
Money: she doesn't have enough money to start all over again. she has never been employed or does not make enough money to support herself and her children. shes scared to try to make it alone.
Fear: she is terrified. he has told her that she better never try to leave him. he says that he will find her no matter where she goes. he says he will take the kids and run. he says that he will track her down and kill her. she knows he means it.
On the Heather's Hope page they list these as increased danger signs or red flags:
- Abuse happens more often
- Abuse gets rougher
- There is a gun in the house
- Abuser uses drugs or alcohol
- Abuser threatens to kill self or others
- Abuser hurts or kills pets
- Abuser is jealous, suspicious, or possessive
- Abuser gets into fights with other people
and these as first steps to take:
- If leaving is not an option make a safety plan
- Call Police if you are being abused
- If it is safe, keep a journal of the abuse
- Attend a support group
- Call the state domestic violence hotline to discuss options : 1-800-500-1119 (this is for Florida)
- The NATIONAL hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE
I pray that if anyone reading this is currently involved in a DV situation that you would take time to sit back and really think about your situation and get the help that you need AND deserve. If it's a loved one suffering, just continue to be the best support that you can be. Always encourage them. Everyone deserves to live a happy life and be treated with unconditional love and respect.
Friday, September 23, 2011
A Teacher Remembers
It's Friday Friends! :)
I figured I'd share a quick heartwarming story about how sweet teachers really are. It continues to blow my mind how much teachers actually remember. You may think that you are just one of thousands of students that walk through their door, but the fact is, teachers remember. They are such special people. <3
I saw a prime example of this this past year. I have found (and got in touch with) my 2nd and 3rd grade teachers on facebook of all places. I found my 2nd grade teacher and contacted her to see if she remembered me. She was actually my 1st AND 2nd grade teacher, and my mom and I went to church with her family a few times (her husband was the Pastor) and I had a few play dates with her daughter way back when. She remembered me. :) THEN, this story still amazes me, my third grade teacher found me. She wasn't looking, but coincidentally my third grade teacher is also the aunt my friend (whom I've blogged about before). Mrs. Marlow actually asked my friend to ask me if I ever had her as a teacher because my name looked familiar. Really?! I was in her class about 20 years ago. It just amazes me how much of an impact students make on teachers.
I have such special memories of elementary school as my ♥Mommy♥ was always a volunteer and very active with all my classes. <3
I figured I'd share this story with you as it brings a smile to my face to realize the impact students make on their teachers. It lasts a lifetime.
On another note, I have to share another picture with you. Yesterday I shared one of the pillow my friend made. Well, today she posted this picture of the same chair and pillow but with her beautiful cat Zero whom I've also blogged about before. Sara & I both brought home our SPCA rescues on the same day!
If any of you live near Nashville, be sure to check out the grand debut of Honeybean Mobile Shoppe. She will be out a the Nashville Fairgrounds. How cool is it to have a mobile shoppe? Show Kaelah and her fiance Mike some support! <3
Also, I had something amazing happen to me last night. God works in mysterious ways, and he IS an awesome God. I can't wait to share this news with you! I will post it on Sunday. I am taking Saturday off of blogging to enjoy some family time, and participate in a 5K for Domestic Violence. Have a blessed weekend everyone. Live, Laugh, and Love.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Thankful Thursday V1.4
Is it really Thursday?! I had to do a double take, but, yup, it is! I think I am thrown off because usually Thursday is the 1st day of my weekend, however, I had Wednesday night off so I could go to the children's home with my church. SO, Wednesday was my Thursday.
♥ craft nights with my friend Sara. Last Thursday I made some dog collars while she made a beautiful pillow.
♥ answered prayers. My husband and I have been in prayer a lot recently about house hunting, and prayers were answered. Thank You Jesus! We almost let our excitement get the best of us and make a rash decision, but thankfully we had time to pray over it and get the answers we needed.
♥ Rita's Italian Ice on a hot day! I had the island fusion flavor of Italian Ice after swimming last Saturday and it was just so refreshing. It definitely hit the spot.
♥ Publix Brownie Bites on a rough day. Sunday was a rough day at work, BUT, my friend Jay ran to Publix to grab a sub on break and brought me back some brownie bites. They made the day that much better. Thanks Jay!
♥ Physical Therapy. I am thankful that my insurance is covering some, and that I am able to financially budget the rest in. I know it'll help my back! So far I had the consultation + 1 session and the session was hard!
♥ Rescheduled dentists appointments. I've had a dentist appointment scheduled for today for a long time, then they wanted to schedule physical therapy for today at 10. I thought my dentist appointment was at 8am, so I said yes, I knew I'd be pushing it as each appointment is on opposite sides of town. BUT, I was going to try. THEN, my dentist called to remind me that my appointment was today at 8:30am. OOPS! Even less time, still I was going to try it. THEN my dentist called to say a 7:30am had opened, and if I wanted it? YES! Problem solved. Dentist @ 7:30am and PT @ 10am.
♥ JCP perks. I bought 2 pairs of skinny jeans and 2 shirts the other day and only paid $12 thanks to two $15/15 and one $10/10 coupons. THANKS JCP!
♥ The Biggest Loser is back on. I am always so inspired by the show. And this show has way more real life love connections that any other reality show AND purpose is not even love. HELLO! Goes to show you love will come when you aren't even looking. I haven't watched Tuesdays new episode yet, but it's on the DVR and ready for whenever me and my roomie can watch it together.
Those are just a few things I am thankful for this week. What about you? Please feel free to link up. I leave the linky open for an entire week, that way if YOU don't have time to do a Thankful Thursday post you could do Thankful Tuesday, or Thankful Saturday, or whatever works for you, just link back so I can check it out!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
What I am Loving Wednesday
I had fun participating in the what i am loving wednesday last week so I am doing so again! :)
However, since many of the things I am loving will also be up in tomorrows new Thankful Thursday link up (care to join anyone? It will be up around 6am) I am posting some of the blog posts I am loving from this past week or so!
Top 10 Tuesday: Pinterest Sayings - by Laura @ Between the Lines (my favorite that she posted was actually the 1st one)
The Hardest Part - by DaisyJo @ DaisyPetals (this is an incredibly touching post about a funeral of a local high schooler that was killed in a dirt bike accident. I had tears reading it)
A Letter to my 16yr old self - by Kaelah @ Little Chief Honeybee (I truly enjoyed reading this and Kaelah has inspired me to do the same)
Busta Move - by Ree @ The Pioneer Woman (I have been waiting for this post! Ree blogged months ago about finding a stray Beagle and I had been curious about if they found it's home or if they kept him. THIS is the answer)
Thank you for all of the bad times - by Danielle @ Sometimes Sweet (the quote image she posted says it all. Thank you for endless inspiring posts Dani!)
Year One - by Sara @ The Traveling PhoblogWriPher (this lovely lady and her husband (who shares the same name and guitar passion as MY husband) are preparing for an amazing cross country trip in which they will be visiting every state and serving somehow. They gave up their former home to live in a 1973 Winnebago Brave. How cool is that?!)
Denver the guilty dog - by myself :) on my pet blog. (the youtube video I posted is HILARIOUS! If you are a pet owner, you know, you can always tell the guilty dog)
I will not leave you as orphans by Carmen from The Joy FM (a local Christian radio station) (she post tales of her recent missions trip to Honduras. WOW. Just wow.)
SO, those are a few posts I am loving this week? What about you? Leave me a comment so I can check favorite posts out. Have a blessed day. <3
However, since many of the things I am loving will also be up in tomorrows new Thankful Thursday link up (care to join anyone? It will be up around 6am) I am posting some of the blog posts I am loving from this past week or so!
Top 10 Tuesday: Pinterest Sayings - by Laura @ Between the Lines (my favorite that she posted was actually the 1st one)
The Hardest Part - by DaisyJo @ DaisyPetals (this is an incredibly touching post about a funeral of a local high schooler that was killed in a dirt bike accident. I had tears reading it)
A Letter to my 16yr old self - by Kaelah @ Little Chief Honeybee (I truly enjoyed reading this and Kaelah has inspired me to do the same)
Busta Move - by Ree @ The Pioneer Woman (I have been waiting for this post! Ree blogged months ago about finding a stray Beagle and I had been curious about if they found it's home or if they kept him. THIS is the answer)
Thank you for all of the bad times - by Danielle @ Sometimes Sweet (the quote image she posted says it all. Thank you for endless inspiring posts Dani!)
Year One - by Sara @ The Traveling PhoblogWriPher (this lovely lady and her husband (who shares the same name and guitar passion as MY husband) are preparing for an amazing cross country trip in which they will be visiting every state and serving somehow. They gave up their former home to live in a 1973 Winnebago Brave. How cool is that?!)
Denver the guilty dog - by myself :) on my pet blog. (the youtube video I posted is HILARIOUS! If you are a pet owner, you know, you can always tell the guilty dog)
I will not leave you as orphans by Carmen from The Joy FM (a local Christian radio station) (she post tales of her recent missions trip to Honduras. WOW. Just wow.)
SO, those are a few posts I am loving this week? What about you? Leave me a comment so I can check favorite posts out. Have a blessed day. <3
Domestic Violence, a silent killer
This past weekend my community dealt with two horrific instances of domestic violence.
Theresa Fogle was found dead on Sunday, after her husband stormed into a local church (that they used to attend) and shot two pastors. After her husband was wrestled down and arrested, he told the police to go to his house where they'd find his wife as well as a written confession. At the house they did find the body of his wife whom he'd shot to death, as well as a letter supposedly written by her detailing alleged infidelities she'd had. As of now, there is no way for the investigators to decide if this letter was indeed penned by Theresa, or her husband, and if it WAS penned by Theresa if it was true, or if her husband forced her to, before killing her They are currently in the process of interviewing the men she allegedly had affairs with. Either way, infidelity is no excuse to take a life. I am in no way an advocate for divorce, but in situations like this, seriously, isn't divorce less tragic?! It was just found that her husband was actually charged with manslaughter of his first wife, in 1986. Apparently he got off with just some probation and fines. Theresa's family said they could see problems with the relationship from the start, mostly with control issues. However, with no physical signs of abuse, and Theresa defending him and how much she loved him, the family stayed out of her business.
While Theresa's family always sensed something was amiss with the relationship, most of the time, in domestic violence cases, closest friends and family members are not even aware of trouble. Another case from this weekend is a prime example.
Beatrice "Bea" Dickey was beaten to death with a baseball bat by her husband of 5 years on Saturday night. Her husband then drove to the local police station and said "lock me up, I just beat my wife with a bat, she is hurt real bad". Bea was airlifted to a local hospital where she later died. Hours earlier she'd been enjoying a concert with her husband. Bea actually worked for a local sheriffs office where she was the 3rd highest ranking executive member as well as the highest ranking civilian employee. She was very active in the community. Friends and family say their were no signs of trouble in the marriage.
And this is why domestic violence is a silent killer among women. Because many of the women that suffer don't speak up, many don't seek help. There are many reasons for this. Fear is a huge one. Fear of what could happen if they left the abusive spouse. My question is: Don't you fear what could happen if you STAY?! And of course there is the "but I love him" or "he does it because he loves me". Or "it's my fault". These excuses hurt my heart. I hate to see anyone suffer and it saddens me that so many have been abused not only physically, but emotionally as well, to the point of believing that they did something to deserve the abuse. THIS IS NOT TRUE. There is never, ever, an excuse to lay a hand on your spouse. I don't say never an excuse for a man to hit a woman, I say never an excuse to lay a hand on your spouse because it goes both ways. Yes, 9x out of 10, it's a man abusing a woman, BUT, it does happen the other way sometimes. And it shouldn't. There is NO EXCUSE.
I'd like to give you some statistics that I got from Women In Distress:
* Every 9 seconds a woman in the United States is battered by her husband, boyfriend or live in partner
* It is estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 14 men will at some point experience domestic violence in their life. (If you sit down with two of your closest female friends, this is quite alarming that 1 out of 3 women will experience this)
* According to the FBI, every day 4 women die of domestic violence.
* Approximately 8.8 million children witness domestic abuse yearly. Of men who abuse women, 40-60% of them will abuse children as well.
* Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls report that a boyfriend threatened violence or self harm when presented with a break up. Also, 1 in 3 teenagers admit to knowing someone that has been abused.
* There are 572,000 reports of domestic violence that are officially reported to federal officials each year, however, the most conservative estimate is that 2 to 4 million are battered each year. At least 170,000 of these incidents are violent enough to require hospitalization.
It's so hard to help those involved in domestic disputes because ultimately the decision to get help or leave the spouse is theirs, and theirs alone. I can tell you from personal experience of trying to help people I care about, and people I don't even know, that you can tell them the stats all day long, but, ultimately, they have got to want to get out of their situation for themselves, and no one else. I've heard stories where girls were abused to the point of hospitalization and still wanted to go back. Of when the spouse has been arrested and at the same time the other party is ready and waiting when they are released. I've had a male friend of mine be told by a girl he was interested in that he was "too nice" and that they were used to being abused or with a mean guy. REALLY!?
Here are a few tips on what you can say if you know someone that is involved in a DV situation:
• I’m afraid for you or I am concerned about your safety.
This tells a victim you care and that you know they may be in danger. It may alert the victim that they too should be concerned about safety.
• I’m concerned about the safety and well being of your children.
If there are children in the picture, let the victim know you are concerned about what they may be experiencing. However, do not assume that the survivor is not already chiefly concerned with their children’s welfare.
• I am concerned because I think it will only get worse.
Although this might sound pessimistic, the statistics suggest that abuse is most likely to escalate. Giving victims false promises that it will get better or that the abuse is likely to end is not helpful.
• I am here for you.
This tells victims you care and you are willing to listen and do what you can. Be clear and set boundaries about what you can and cannot offer.
• You deserve to be treated with respect.
The victim has likely been told they are to blame for or deserve abuse. Your words can help counter the hurtful words of an abuser.
• Do you have a safety plan?
Regardless of whether a victim intends to leave the abuser immediately or ever, it is critical that a specific plan for their safety be developed. Supportive family, friends, and peers can make useful suggestions, but it is best to encourage a victim to consult with the local domestic violence center or police department victim advocate to develop a detailed plan
The above tips were also from Women In Distress
I write all of this as I get ready to participate in the 2nd annual purple ribbon run for Heather's Hope this coming Saturday. Heather's Hope is a non profit established by the family of Heather Rimmer. Heather was the aunt of one of my friends. Her life was tragically taken in an act of domestic violence in 2008.
Domestic Violence is one of the silent killers of women world wide. There are so many sufferers that never tell their story, that never get help, and that never make it out alive. Please, if you know someone who is suffering, or you suspect that they may be suffering silently, talk to them. Be their support system. And don't be afraid to speak up, even if you don't know the person. I've done it before. One time shortly after my friends aunt Heather was killed, I was working out at the gym and heard two younger girls talking about one of the girls being beat up and hospitalized. I could hear the one friend advising her friend to leave the guy, though when he called (while we were still working out) the other girl picked up and talked to him. I stopped my work out, walked over and apologized for over hearing them and offered my advice. I told them Heather's story, and I told the girl that was involved that she should listen to her friend as she was giving wonderful advice and I wished them well. I will never know what happened with the situation but I can just hope that I helped her make some positive changes in her life. You NEVER know when or how God will use you. I was placed at the gym at that time for a reason that day.
Sorry for the length of this. Sometimes (almost all the time) I go off on a rant when I get to talking about causes I am passionate about. If you made it this far, kudos :)
Side note: All opinions in this post are just that, my opinions. I have (fortunately) never had to deal with any type of domestic violence personally. I have had loved ones go through it, so I am a bit opinionated on the topic.
Theresa Fogle was found dead on Sunday, after her husband stormed into a local church (that they used to attend) and shot two pastors. After her husband was wrestled down and arrested, he told the police to go to his house where they'd find his wife as well as a written confession. At the house they did find the body of his wife whom he'd shot to death, as well as a letter supposedly written by her detailing alleged infidelities she'd had. As of now, there is no way for the investigators to decide if this letter was indeed penned by Theresa, or her husband, and if it WAS penned by Theresa if it was true, or if her husband forced her to, before killing her They are currently in the process of interviewing the men she allegedly had affairs with. Either way, infidelity is no excuse to take a life. I am in no way an advocate for divorce, but in situations like this, seriously, isn't divorce less tragic?! It was just found that her husband was actually charged with manslaughter of his first wife, in 1986. Apparently he got off with just some probation and fines. Theresa's family said they could see problems with the relationship from the start, mostly with control issues. However, with no physical signs of abuse, and Theresa defending him and how much she loved him, the family stayed out of her business.
While Theresa's family always sensed something was amiss with the relationship, most of the time, in domestic violence cases, closest friends and family members are not even aware of trouble. Another case from this weekend is a prime example.
Beatrice "Bea" Dickey was beaten to death with a baseball bat by her husband of 5 years on Saturday night. Her husband then drove to the local police station and said "lock me up, I just beat my wife with a bat, she is hurt real bad". Bea was airlifted to a local hospital where she later died. Hours earlier she'd been enjoying a concert with her husband. Bea actually worked for a local sheriffs office where she was the 3rd highest ranking executive member as well as the highest ranking civilian employee. She was very active in the community. Friends and family say their were no signs of trouble in the marriage.
And this is why domestic violence is a silent killer among women. Because many of the women that suffer don't speak up, many don't seek help. There are many reasons for this. Fear is a huge one. Fear of what could happen if they left the abusive spouse. My question is: Don't you fear what could happen if you STAY?! And of course there is the "but I love him" or "he does it because he loves me". Or "it's my fault". These excuses hurt my heart. I hate to see anyone suffer and it saddens me that so many have been abused not only physically, but emotionally as well, to the point of believing that they did something to deserve the abuse. THIS IS NOT TRUE. There is never, ever, an excuse to lay a hand on your spouse. I don't say never an excuse for a man to hit a woman, I say never an excuse to lay a hand on your spouse because it goes both ways. Yes, 9x out of 10, it's a man abusing a woman, BUT, it does happen the other way sometimes. And it shouldn't. There is NO EXCUSE.
I'd like to give you some statistics that I got from Women In Distress:
* Every 9 seconds a woman in the United States is battered by her husband, boyfriend or live in partner
* It is estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 14 men will at some point experience domestic violence in their life. (If you sit down with two of your closest female friends, this is quite alarming that 1 out of 3 women will experience this)
* According to the FBI, every day 4 women die of domestic violence.
* Approximately 8.8 million children witness domestic abuse yearly. Of men who abuse women, 40-60% of them will abuse children as well.
* Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls report that a boyfriend threatened violence or self harm when presented with a break up. Also, 1 in 3 teenagers admit to knowing someone that has been abused.
* There are 572,000 reports of domestic violence that are officially reported to federal officials each year, however, the most conservative estimate is that 2 to 4 million are battered each year. At least 170,000 of these incidents are violent enough to require hospitalization.
It's so hard to help those involved in domestic disputes because ultimately the decision to get help or leave the spouse is theirs, and theirs alone. I can tell you from personal experience of trying to help people I care about, and people I don't even know, that you can tell them the stats all day long, but, ultimately, they have got to want to get out of their situation for themselves, and no one else. I've heard stories where girls were abused to the point of hospitalization and still wanted to go back. Of when the spouse has been arrested and at the same time the other party is ready and waiting when they are released. I've had a male friend of mine be told by a girl he was interested in that he was "too nice" and that they were used to being abused or with a mean guy. REALLY!?
Here are a few tips on what you can say if you know someone that is involved in a DV situation:
• I’m afraid for you or I am concerned about your safety.
This tells a victim you care and that you know they may be in danger. It may alert the victim that they too should be concerned about safety.
• I’m concerned about the safety and well being of your children.
If there are children in the picture, let the victim know you are concerned about what they may be experiencing. However, do not assume that the survivor is not already chiefly concerned with their children’s welfare.
• I am concerned because I think it will only get worse.
Although this might sound pessimistic, the statistics suggest that abuse is most likely to escalate. Giving victims false promises that it will get better or that the abuse is likely to end is not helpful.
• I am here for you.
This tells victims you care and you are willing to listen and do what you can. Be clear and set boundaries about what you can and cannot offer.
• You deserve to be treated with respect.
The victim has likely been told they are to blame for or deserve abuse. Your words can help counter the hurtful words of an abuser.
• Do you have a safety plan?
Regardless of whether a victim intends to leave the abuser immediately or ever, it is critical that a specific plan for their safety be developed. Supportive family, friends, and peers can make useful suggestions, but it is best to encourage a victim to consult with the local domestic violence center or police department victim advocate to develop a detailed plan
The above tips were also from Women In Distress
I write all of this as I get ready to participate in the 2nd annual purple ribbon run for Heather's Hope this coming Saturday. Heather's Hope is a non profit established by the family of Heather Rimmer. Heather was the aunt of one of my friends. Her life was tragically taken in an act of domestic violence in 2008.
Domestic Violence is one of the silent killers of women world wide. There are so many sufferers that never tell their story, that never get help, and that never make it out alive. Please, if you know someone who is suffering, or you suspect that they may be suffering silently, talk to them. Be their support system. And don't be afraid to speak up, even if you don't know the person. I've done it before. One time shortly after my friends aunt Heather was killed, I was working out at the gym and heard two younger girls talking about one of the girls being beat up and hospitalized. I could hear the one friend advising her friend to leave the guy, though when he called (while we were still working out) the other girl picked up and talked to him. I stopped my work out, walked over and apologized for over hearing them and offered my advice. I told them Heather's story, and I told the girl that was involved that she should listen to her friend as she was giving wonderful advice and I wished them well. I will never know what happened with the situation but I can just hope that I helped her make some positive changes in her life. You NEVER know when or how God will use you. I was placed at the gym at that time for a reason that day.
Sorry for the length of this. Sometimes (almost all the time) I go off on a rant when I get to talking about causes I am passionate about. If you made it this far, kudos :)
Side note: All opinions in this post are just that, my opinions. I have (fortunately) never had to deal with any type of domestic violence personally. I have had loved ones go through it, so I am a bit opinionated on the topic.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
A-Z of Me :)
Miss Indie & Dani over @ Sometimes Sweet just participated in this little "A-Z of me" meme within the last week and it looked fun; I love doing these type of "get to know you" thingies. SO, here we go:
A. Age: 27
B. Bed size: Queen Tempurpedic <-- THAT makes all the difference with my bad back
C. Chore that you hate: cleaning the bathroom. Ew!
D. Dogs: rule, cats drool. --- Agreed with Miss Indie :) Oh, and they rule my heart.
E. Essential start to your day: 1st thing I do is check my cell for any missed calls/texts, then bathroom to pee and brush my teeth :p
F. Favorite color: Pink & Yellow (guess what my wedding colors were)
G. Gold or Silver: I like silver or white gold
H. Height: 5'2"ish
I. Instruments you play: no musical talent here, sorry. BUT, my husband is extremely talented.
J. Job title: Operations Technical Manager
K. Kids: None yet. I will definitely be a mommy one day, but not for awhile. --- Ditto
L. Live: Perfect letter L. Lakeland.
M. Mother’s name: Constance. Oddly enough I didn't find out that was her full name until I saw an old yearbook after her death. I always thought it was Connie.
N. Nicknames: I will spare you the cute little nick names my husband calls me :)
O. Overnight hospital stays: quite a few as a child due to severe asthma
P. Pet peeves: if you ask someone to hang out or do something a day or two in advance and they say "I don't know yet" I'd rather they just say "Maybe, unless something else comes up!" HAH! If you don't want to commit, just say so! I totally don't get offended by that kind of stuff. Bad drivers, though that may be a bit hypocritical :) People that constantly complain and never see any positive.
Q. Quote from a movie: "I don't think I can be with someone who doesn't like animals and thinks I am a mental person" --- Andie in How to Lose a Guy in 10 days
R. Right or left handed: Righty.
S. Siblings: 1 older sister
U. Underwear: a bit personal, don't ya think?!
V. Vegetable you hate: Hmm... I don't know. I try everything at least once... and I can't think of any one that I absolutely hate right now.
W. What makes you run late: an emergency? I am actually usually early to everything!
X. X-Rays you’ve had: Oh my. A ton. My right leg when I broke it in 3rd grade, and a million on my back and neck.
Y. Yummy food that you make: This is hard. I love to cook. I've received the most compliments on my Chili, Mac & Cheese, & these amazing deli sandwiches that I make.
Z. Zoo animal: Giraffes! And Zebra's! Though I always feel so bad that they are in captivity :(
I would love to learn more about you! If you do this, please comment below with the link so I can check it out!
Oh, and check out my pet blog if you are a pet person, I updated it yesterday as well :)
A. Age: 27
B. Bed size: Queen Tempurpedic <-- THAT makes all the difference with my bad back
C. Chore that you hate: cleaning the bathroom. Ew!
D. Dogs: rule, cats drool. --- Agreed with Miss Indie :) Oh, and they rule my heart.
E. Essential start to your day: 1st thing I do is check my cell for any missed calls/texts, then bathroom to pee and brush my teeth :p
F. Favorite color: Pink & Yellow (guess what my wedding colors were)
G. Gold or Silver: I like silver or white gold
H. Height: 5'2"ish
I. Instruments you play: no musical talent here, sorry. BUT, my husband is extremely talented.
J. Job title: Operations Technical Manager
K. Kids: None yet. I will definitely be a mommy one day, but not for awhile. --- Ditto
L. Live: Perfect letter L. Lakeland.
M. Mother’s name: Constance. Oddly enough I didn't find out that was her full name until I saw an old yearbook after her death. I always thought it was Connie.
N. Nicknames: I will spare you the cute little nick names my husband calls me :)
O. Overnight hospital stays: quite a few as a child due to severe asthma
P. Pet peeves: if you ask someone to hang out or do something a day or two in advance and they say "I don't know yet" I'd rather they just say "Maybe, unless something else comes up!" HAH! If you don't want to commit, just say so! I totally don't get offended by that kind of stuff. Bad drivers, though that may be a bit hypocritical :) People that constantly complain and never see any positive.
Q. Quote from a movie: "I don't think I can be with someone who doesn't like animals and thinks I am a mental person" --- Andie in How to Lose a Guy in 10 days
R. Right or left handed: Righty.
S. Siblings: 1 older sister
U. Underwear: a bit personal, don't ya think?!
V. Vegetable you hate: Hmm... I don't know. I try everything at least once... and I can't think of any one that I absolutely hate right now.
W. What makes you run late: an emergency? I am actually usually early to everything!
X. X-Rays you’ve had: Oh my. A ton. My right leg when I broke it in 3rd grade, and a million on my back and neck.
Y. Yummy food that you make: This is hard. I love to cook. I've received the most compliments on my Chili, Mac & Cheese, & these amazing deli sandwiches that I make.
Z. Zoo animal: Giraffes! And Zebra's! Though I always feel so bad that they are in captivity :(
I would love to learn more about you! If you do this, please comment below with the link so I can check it out!
Oh, and check out my pet blog if you are a pet person, I updated it yesterday as well :)
Monday, September 19, 2011
Weekend Wrap Up & Physical Therapy
Even though Thursday is not a typical weekend day, it IS part of my weekend, and I must share that I enjoyed a 2 hour nap on Thursday. This is probably because I didn't sleep well Wednesday night, but, regardless, my husband and I enjoyed a nap together and it was SO fabulous.
As for the actual weekend?
Friday = Lunch with the hubby at Zaxbys, followed by literally an entire day of house hunting. On Wednesday we had found a house that we absolutely loved. And almost made a rash decision that would have not been the right one but thankfully after a few days of prayer, we came to our senses :) God is good! and he will lead us to our perfect home.
Saturday - I walked 3 miles, then worked out with some weights at the gym, then went swimming and laid out for a few hours with a friend. We enjoyed free lunch at Subways, and Italian Ice @ Rita's after the pool. SO refreshing! And love FREE!
As for the actual weekend?
Friday = Lunch with the hubby at Zaxbys, followed by literally an entire day of house hunting. On Wednesday we had found a house that we absolutely loved. And almost made a rash decision that would have not been the right one but thankfully after a few days of prayer, we came to our senses :) God is good! and he will lead us to our perfect home.
Saturday - I walked 3 miles, then worked out with some weights at the gym, then went swimming and laid out for a few hours with a friend. We enjoyed free lunch at Subways, and Italian Ice @ Rita's after the pool. SO refreshing! And love FREE!
Sunday - Sunday School, and then work. A long, crazy day at work. BUT, ya know what? Work is work. And I am thankful for it
***
I had my first physical therapy session today. Well, I guess I shouldn't say my 1st, as I have went before probably 10 years ago. Anyways, today, I started a new session. The goal is to strengthen my lower back and hopefully stabilize it so my Spondy slip doesn't progress. The therapist asked me a lot of questions, many I didn't have answers to. I KNOW I have scoliosis, I've even heard severe scoliosis before, however I do not know the measurements and the type. Weird. SO, I need to ask my doctor next time I go. Physical therapy is going to be quite interesting. He said my range of motion is good, so we don't have to work on that, we will have to work on my strength as I am a weakling. He also said towards the end of our sessions, I can bring my husband in with me so he can teach him what I need to be doing once I leave as well, he will also show us stretches my husband can help me do. Yay! He told me I definitely should NOT be running. I don't run much, but I do intervals on the treadmill and also would love to complete a 5K one day. For now, that is off limits.
***
I have to share with you the lyrics to a song that was going through my head all weekend and then when I turned on my car today, it was the FIRST thing playing! <3
"Well, let me remind you. It all matters just as long as you do everything you do to the Glory of the one who made you, cause he made you to do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to his face. And tell the story of Grace with every move that you make, and every little thing you do."
Do Everything - Steven Curtis Chapman
I hope your weekend went well and that you go to enjoy some time with loved ones. It's back to the grind day. Monday. Have a blessed week friends. <3
Don't forget to enter my September Giveaway of a $20 gift card to Starbucks. Mmm! Time to try some fall frappe's. Pumpkin anyone? You can enter through NEXT Thursday, September 29th. Spread the word.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
I Dig Your Blog Award
Kristen over @ Joyful Ramblings decided to honor me with the "I Dig Your Blog Award"
SO SWEET! Thank you, Kristen. <3
Here's the deal with above award:
Thank the person who gave you the award:
Thanks again Kristen. You brought a huge smile to my face today.
Share three random facts about yourself:
1. I have a birth mark on the bottom of the front of my right leg that resembles a bunny.
2. I lovelovelove to receive snail mail. Old fashioned letters are just so fun!
3. Charity work is my passion. Helping others brings me such joy. I am involved with my local SPCA, Relay for Life, Light the Night, and of course, currently, working hard to help my cousin get a kidney transplant. You can read more above under Kidney for Kristy.
Pass it on to five other bloggers:
DaisyJo @ DaisyPetals
Laura @ Between the Lines
Mandy @ She Breathes Deeply
Kaelah @ Little Chief Honeybee
Also, Laura is hosting a My Memories giveaway right now on her blog! Be sure to check it out and enter. Hello Giveways! Always fun :)
Have a blessed weekend, ya'll! <3
Friday, September 16, 2011
Ovarian Cancer is NOT a silent killer
My Dad had me watch an episode of the new season of Dr. Oz today and after hearing countless women's story of misdiagnosis I felt compelled to share this information with you as it may save a life one day.
Ovarian Cancer is NOT a "silent" killer.
For years Doctor's were taught that Ovarian cancer is a silent killer, and that it has no symptoms. This is NOT true. There are early warning signs that you may have yet never even associate with anything. Too many lives have been lost because early warning signs are missed OR misdiagnosed by doctors. There were NUMEROUS women that went to their doctors complaining of weird issues such as their cycle getting heavier out of the blue, bloating, felling full too soon when eating, pelvic pain on the left side, or having to pee a lot. Many of these women were told to seek psychiatrists as the doctor did not see anything wrong, or told to see a neurologist, or told that it was normal due to their age, etc. One woman was even told "STOP watching doctors shows and going online". REALLY?! You want to know what's scary? Many of these same women were diagnosed in later stages of Ovarian cancer. One lady was diagnosed after two years and 20 doctors visits with stage 2 ovarian cancer. This is absolutely ridiculous to me. These women felt that something was wrong with their body, yet couldn't get ANY ONE to listen to the. WHAT A SCARY THING!
So, Doctor Oz has an Ovarian Cancer Questionaire that you can print off, fill out, and take to your doctor if you have any of those symptoms on a regular basis.
I pray that his show will have hit so many different homes, that will spread the word, just as I have here and on my facebook, and that lives would be saved. Please share this information with the wonderful women in your life.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Thankful Thursday V1.3
Happy Thursday Ya'll :)
Today I am thankful for:
- the fact that my husband and I are actually able to have the financial ability to house hunt. Funny story with our house hunt yesterday: as we were being shown houses with our realtor a local TV station contacted her about doing a story about all the networking she does with, surprise, facebook. She doubled her sales last year after using facebook and now teaches seminars on it. SO, since she was already out and about with us, we agreed to be filmed for the segment and were on our local 6pm news. WOW. That was quite interesting. If I am feeling feisty later, maybe I will post the link.
- prayer. <3 enough said.
- dinners with my roomie. Even though we live together, we both have our own schedules and stuff going on so it's not often we get to sit down and cook dinner and watch a movie together. Last Saturday was one of those days!
- short days at work when you are not feeling well. Sunday I felt ridiculous. God works in mysterious ways and I ended up having a half day at work (when I thought I was going into work for a FULL day + hours)
- coupons and BOGO's. I paid $2.40 for two things of my laundry detergent. It would have been $12 something without.
- Green Tea Frappe's from Starbucks. After posting my September Giveaway of a Starbucks gift card, I was craving it, and ended up there that very same day. Haha. You can enter through Thursday, September 29th.
- NOT getting a ticket for a "rolling stop". As I left Starbucks from the above said trip, I went to do a "rolling stop" through a stop sign BUT saw two motorcyclists approaching. I don't like to turn out in front of cyclists so I came to a complete stop. Turned out the cyclists were two motorcycle cops. I would have got a ticket, no doubt.
- new babies everywhere. Another friend had a baby last Friday, that was two in one week! YAY!
Those are a few of the things I am thankful for this week. Sorry for lack of pictures to go a long. It's been one busy week.
Monday, September 12, 2011
September Giveaway
I had planned to blog about some exciting happenings from the weekend, however, life happened, and I won't have time today. I promise to share the "happenings" this week though! Instead, I will let you in on the giveaway for September.
This month I am giving away a $20 gift card to Starbucks.
This month I am giving away a $20 gift card to Starbucks.
Nothing says fall like a nice pumpkin spice latte or frappe. :)
Personally, I like the peppermint mocha or green tea frappe best BUT I know the pumpkin ones are super popular during the fall months, so, I hope this $20 gift card will allow someone to enjoy a taste of fall. And, hey, it's win-win, even if YOU don't drink coffee, I'm sure you know someone who does and this would be the perfect stocking stuffer or Christmas gift.
I will announce the winner on Friday, September 30th so that gives you just over 2 weeks to enter. Good luck! Also, I love doing giveaways! Giving to others, whether it's big or small brings a smile to my face! If you want to be a part of this, and have an item from your shop you'd like to giveaway, please email me at BrownEyedBell11@yahoo.com. I'd love to host a giveaway for you!
I will announce the winner on Friday, September 30th so that gives you just over 2 weeks to enter. Good luck! Also, I love doing giveaways! Giving to others, whether it's big or small brings a smile to my face! If you want to be a part of this, and have an item from your shop you'd like to giveaway, please email me at BrownEyedBell11@yahoo.com. I'd love to host a giveaway for you!
Ways To Enter
As for the (many) ways to enter:
1. Become a follower of Brown Eyed Bell(e) with Google Friend Connect. To do so, you can click JOIN THIS SITE on the left hand side of the screen and follow it with your google/blogger, twitter, yahoo, or AIM login info) and then leave a comment below letting me know you are following me. NOTE: If you are already a follower, just leave a comment letting me know. That is your entry. You MUST do this entry first in order to be eligible for other entries.
You can also earn other entries by doing the following:
2. become a follower of my pet blog http://www.4paws4love.com
3. update your status on facebook with the link sending people here to this contest
4. LIKE Brown Eyed Bell(e) on facebook
5. LIKE 4Paws4Love on facebook
6. LIKE Kidney for Kristy on facebook
7. blog about this contest, with a link sending people here
8. tweet about this contest, with a link sending people here. If you do so please use the following tweet: @heatherlc02 from Brown Eyed Bell(e) is giving away a $20 gift card to #Starbucks http://browneyedbell.blogspot.com/2011/09/september-giveaway.html
In order to qualify PLEASE remember to leave a separate comment for each entry that you do, as well as the link so I can verify it as an accurate entry if you win.
That's EIGHT ways you can enter!! :)
GOOD LUCK FRIENDS :)
***
when you enter, please use a name because if I have 10 anonymous entries, and 1 wins, it will be hard to narrow the winner down if no email was provided.***
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Remember.
We will never forget.
***
If you do nothing else today, please take a moment to read this blog post from an an army wife made today. It's from Laura, one of my blog friends. She and her baby boy, E, sacrifice so much for our great nation. You see, her husband is in the army. He has been deployed twice. Never forget to give thanks to not only the men and women that sacrifice their lives daily to serve us, but also for their families who sacrifice as well.
***
Where were you on September 11th, 2001? I remember laying in bed, I had "played hookey" (actually I was still going through a bit of depression as my Mom had just passed away less than a month before) from school that day, and my Dad came in to tell me the breaking news. Tragic. I continued to watch the news the rest of the day with a heavy heart. In disbelief. And definitely not knowing what would happen next. I was a naive girl.
I was able to visit ground zero in March of 2006. Here's a few of the pictures I snapped.
I hope each and every one of you will take time to reflect, remember, and say a prayer for the lives lost, and those that were involved directly and still have nightmares to this moment because of it. God Bless each and every one of those heroic men and women that were the first responders.
I am so saddened by the decisions NYC Mayor Bloomberg has made for the 10 year memorial service. No prayer. And 1st responders not welcome at the WTC memorial due to space restrictions. REALLY?!
Well, thankfully we can each pray individually. <3
Dear Heavenly Father,I was able to visit ground zero in March of 2006. Here's a few of the pictures I snapped.
 |
| Cross near the World Trade Center location |
I hope each and every one of you will take time to reflect, remember, and say a prayer for the lives lost, and those that were involved directly and still have nightmares to this moment because of it. God Bless each and every one of those heroic men and women that were the first responders.
I am so saddened by the decisions NYC Mayor Bloomberg has made for the 10 year memorial service. No prayer. And 1st responders not welcome at the WTC memorial due to space restrictions. REALLY?!
Well, thankfully we can each pray individually. <3
Today is a difficult day. The memories are painful and some of the wounds I fear may never heal. Yet I pray you will help me to go on living for truth, firm in my hope of your salvation. May I live for you, Lord, and by doing so, be an example to my friends and family. Help me not to question why, yet even if I do, give me courage to continue to trust you. Help me take the comfort and strength you've poured into my life and use it to comfort and strengthen others who need hope.
I pray I might become a better person and help make the world a better place because of this terrible event. Thank you for the heroes that gave so sacrificially on September 11. Help me to remember their courage and learn from them. I want my life to be worthy of you Lord, so make of it what you desire, and use me to fulfill your purposes. May the evil of that day cause me and my family to work harder to do good on this earth and to bring your light into the dark places. Help me to never stop believing in you and living my life for you.
Lord, heal all those who were crushed and broken on that day. May they come to experience your presence and know your peace.
Amen.
If you are an animal person please be sure to check out my pet blog 4Paws4Love to read about some of the canine heroes of September 11th.
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