Just a Little Thing About Me & You

One thing I hate about a lecture is the transparency in the words. Ladies don't you just hate it when someone offers a little constructive criticism, especially during a time when you're not open to it, and everything that's being said to you is 100% right and you now it. Ughhhh! Yes that's a form of transparency cause you can see everything so clearly, and it's coming from another end....let's not even talk about how it feels to look in the mirror during these times. To continue the ritual of repetition that often flows through my words, I have to mention here the constant yet obvious fact about life...IT IS HARD! Even on our easiest days we find challenge, and sometimes during our happiest times we encounter gloom. Whether through memories of the things we've escaped, or the plans of the things we hope to overcome our minds are constantly aiming to help us fight the good fight and win. What I'm trying to say here is even though it's not always pretty in plain sight, why not embrace the transparency of our inadequacies and our shortfalls, the goal is to overcome them...right?

Ladies I've never been in a ring before, but I've come to realize that I'm a fighter. It's during those desperate, weak moments that we're able to tap into a deeper source of strength. A personal strength from within. I honestly don't believe there is a thing in this life that a person can't overcome. If you can face yourself in the mirror each day, acknowledgeing your flaws, you can triumph over the everyday trials of life. It is a societal fact that a human being is their own worst enemy, worst critic and worst judge of character. So what? Be all these things and more, but be transparent enough to see that a change is needed....then be strong enough to want to make the change. Life is not meant to be a piece of cake. The hurt that we feel is real, but the motivation you can feel can become your reality. You don't have to be rich to taste the wealth of happiness, you just have to be willing to attain it. Ladies, there is nothing wrong with putting your dreams first; if you don't who will? The answer is no one. Be transparent by being you.


Stay Motivated!
Bernie

Experienced A Little Madness Lately???

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Ladies, have you ever found yourself in that moment when you realize things are getting off track? Somehow, along the way, your priorities got shifted out of order, and instantly you feel like you’re running a race against time?  Before I go any further let me just say that time is always the gold medalist in these instances, but I don’t think we realize it until it’s too late; by then we’re worn out, tired, overwhelmed, frustrated and my favorite just plain lazy and cant stimulate the urge to do anything. Madness, pure madness I tell you and the funny thing is that period in our lives just creeps up unnoticed every time.  It’s the good, the bad and the ugly all disguised in one little word…hectic.  No other way around it, and no other way to explain it.  

In retrospect I guess you could try and mentally prepare yourself for a time like this, but I almost guarantee you it will happen anyway.  It’s a transition period in life, which simply means more than likely it’s inevitable; it’s the whirlwind effect and we all go through it, some of us more times than the other.  My question is “who’s going to be there to rescue you and help you through it?”   Ladies, one of the unique qualities we possess is the ability to plan.  When a woman thinks of her life, she is automatically thinking of the future.  Whether that future is tomorrow or ten years from now, when the thought process is triggered we look at how everything will be affected overall.  So who’s going to be the one to restore the balance? Well for starters you are.  You will have to be able to grab the reins, come to a full stop and re-evaluate.  You will have to trigger that inner voice and give yourself the pep talk that you don’t want to here from anyone else.  Ladies, you will have to acknowledge that the person in the mirror is only human and can’t do it all over night, and come to the clear realization that you simply can’t out run time.  Yes we all have goals, and by our hard work, faith and focus we will accomplish them; just come to the understanding, that often, you will get thrown off the path but that doesn’t mean you cant get back on track.  Ladies, if you’ve been swooped into the whirlwind of life these past few weeks, like I’ve been, it’s ok because your destiny still waits. Find your way back to your path, and remember there’s so much to receive at the finish line.

Stay Focused!

Your Life, Your Role...Your Tomorrow



Your life…what is it that you want tomorrow that you don’t have today?  When you really take the time to reflect on your path there is so much more than beats the eye.  The true witness to your endeavors is you; therefore, your recollection of it all is the truest testament of where you have been, where you are now and ultimately where you want to be.  What’s conducive for your well being, are the objects you choose to be a part of the path.  There is no law against formulating and implementing a strategy to live by. Goals are not accomplished simply by sitting back and watching it manifest.  To truly appreciate life is to live it, fully, to the best of your knowledge.  Not every moment is a conquered moment, but being conscious of time is a much needed tool, for time waits for no one.  Everyday that we put something off is a day that you could have been one step closer to the finish line. The real appreciation of life is the acknowledgement of your purpose in it.  You are here for a reason, but only you can let the world know what that reason is.  Ladies if not for any other rationale…LIVE LIFE BECAUSE YOU CAN!  Inquiring minds want to know…what does tomorrow hold for you?

Spoil Me Wednesday: Serenity For The Mind

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Take some time out of your schedule to enjoy a soothing bubble bath; just you and your thoughts in seclusion.  Not only is it a platform for relaxation, it's also a time for you to be one with you.



There are some people out there, in the world, that allow their own minds to work against them—in my book this is an absolute no, no.  If you, yourself, become your own worst enemy imagine how much more difficult it will be to triumph over the true adversaries out there?  Your mind should be a frontline cheering station; a realm for positive reinforcement, and a magnet for genuine optimism.  The best thing about the thought process is that it is private, no one ever has to know what you’re thinking or planning unless you want them to.  Your psyche is a safe haven to store your innovative ideas, and creative concepts.  If you have been carefree when it comes to the notion of sharing your thoughts in the past, take a look at it from this angle going forward.  Success does not only derive from financial backing alone, your idea can possibly be the next big thing—all you can do is try.  A perfect example of being your own worst enemy is discouraging yourself before even making an attempt; how do you know your idea wasn’t going to work?  If you don’t believe in your self, why would anyone else believe in you?  Become an activist of self growth…you deserve to continuously climb the ladder of your life until you become the epitome of your success.  Ladies we have to stay committed to making our strides. —“my life is feeling so good these days, and I know it’s because I’m taking the initiative to change some things for the better.” (Bernie)

Have a GREAT one!

I Got A Feeling

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You know that feeling you get when you know it’s going to be a good day?  That assurance that takes over you, that can be displayed in every step you take?  That confidence you feel that guarantees your smile, and in return that smile becomes so catchy that others automatically smile back at you? You feel strong, motivated, focused even happy; you’re mentally prepared to conquer any and all obstacles that may pop up along the day.  You literally feel a deep appreciation for life, and are humbled at the opportunity to continuously make your dreams come true.  It’s a feeling of liberation.  No one can take away your shine.  You are on a mission, and it will be a success based on determination alone. Ladies, it’s your time to shine.  It costs absolutely nothing to wake up in this frame of mind. If there is one thing that I’ve experienced over the years, it’s the power of our thoughts and emotions.  Sure, it may not be possible to feel up beat and motivated all the time, but if you at least make the attempt it can make a world of difference….especially in shaping the day ahead of you.  Get the feeling ladies; it’s as simple as deciding to make a long term investment in YOU.

Have a GREAT one!

Spoil Me Wednesday: Celebrate & Embrace Your Age

A toast to you....

With every day, every month and eventually the completion of every year comes the obvious reminder that we are not getting any younger, but in fact getting older. There are those of us that embrace the coming of age by welcoming it with open arms and an agenda that fits the timeline of a new era, and there are those of us that shun at even the thought of getting old; they are the same people that turn off the lights, and hide in the dark of the shadows in hopes that if the date is not recognized all will stay the same—reality check ladies—time waits for nobody. Ultimately, we have no choice but to accumulate in years.  The positive side to all this is that with age comes a more stable line of freedom.  You now have the responsibility, to yourself, to choose a direct line towards your goals & dreams.  You have the opportunity to choose wiser, and doing this simply by comparing your life experiences.  The more you grow in maturity, the more you can reflect on your life as it was, and eventually come to realize it as it should be.  Currently I’m in my 30’s, and I’m absolutely loving it.  When I get to my 40’s I want to look back and say…"been there done that, now off to bigger and better."  With each year that approaches, I'm celebrating every single day of it...and you should too!

Have a GREAT one!

Spoil Me Wednesday: Sunbathing In Happiness



Do you believe in happiness?  I mean really believe in happiness in the way that you know that you are truly deserving of it?  In a way that just hearing the word “happy” is confirmation that you are living your life according to the direction of its path?  In the grand scheme of things, with life just being this huge cycle of reoccurring events, I guess it’s just easier to just open up a dictionary and have the term defined for you, rather than take time to search for the answer from within; however, can you really relate to what is being described on a page or do you wish to know the definition of your heart?  

I remember reading this quote, “There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness” (~Lady Blessington), and it really stuck with me.  There is a radiance that exudes from you when you are a billboard for happiness.  Not only is it apparent in your display and the way you portray yourself to others, but it also becomes evident in your mental and physical state.  Making a firm attempt to allow happiness to flow through your everyday life, will allow you the flexibility you need to progress towards self growth.   If you want to be happy, then do so.  In a realm of delight, a moment of pure joy is worth far more than one can imagine.  Pay attention to detail, take a closer look at the little things, analyze the stresses that forbids you from enjoying life’s simplicities; life’s true splendors.  Ultimately be humbled by the fact that you are alive and have been given the opportunity to start over each day.  Happiness is free for those who want it.  Today I plan to sunbathe in mine. 

Have a GREAT one!

Sometimes You Have To Search For Inspiration

When you’re on a mission to accomplish something in life there is no telling how long it will take you to actually realize that goal.  Being able to outline short term vs. long term goals is a key aspect in defining your timeline for completion.  Realistically, change does not come over night and often times in order to see results you have to be patient in your quest. In my opinion it is impossible to feel the strength of motivation every single day of your life; for instance, you may wake up and simply decide you don’t want to deal with the challenges of a new day. You don’t feel the push; you don’t have the energy; you feel nothing but deterioration of enthusiasm. In cases like this I urge you to seek and surround yourself with inspiration in a form that suitable to you.

Find inspiration through....

1. Reading

A good book, article or magazine not only helps relieve stress, but can serve as a learning tool and guide for examples of life and experiences.  Whether it be fiction or non fiction there is something about a story that stimulates the mind.

2. Exercising

Even if it’s a half hour walk, once a day, find your body’s rhythm through movement

3. Color

Incorporate it in your wardrobe, the food you prepare, your decorations etc. Colors stimulates the mind.

4. Music

I love music and my soul has its own relationship with it.  There are songs that undeniably speak to your heart. Songs that make you laugh, songs that make you cry…ultimately they make you feel.

5. Love

This is a tough one, but a great one.  Being inspired through love is like finding your muse.  As if you’re opening your eyes from being in a dark place for so long, and realizing that now there is light; there is something greater than all of us out there.  Love is what you make it, and although this is a subject I don’t wish to elaborate on because of its intensity…I know you haven’t experience life if you haven’t experienced love.

Have a great day!!!

Step Into The Weekend In Nude Pumps

                                                                                                Christian Louboutin

Happy Easter Weekend Ladies!  Around this time families, all over, are planning to get together to spend time with one another and enjoy the celebration of life.  I  love the decor that surronds Easter festivities, because it's full of bright, bold colors, and gorgeous solids, patterns and florals.  Also, gorgeous pairs of nude pumps and sandals are being incorporated into a lot of these styles, and I must say it's really completing the look.  

I hope you all have an awesome weekend planned.  I will be spending time with my loved ones, and of course I'm sure my son will have me on an Easter egg hunt (definitely won't be attempting that in my nude pumps though...lol).  The inspiration I leave with all of you today is "the gift of life", on a spiritual level I am reminded that we all have been given a chance to live life to the fullest, so if you're not already doing so make the decision to do so today. What are you waiting for?  Once you start living and loving life on your own terms, and finding the meaning/purpose of you being here on this earth, it's then you come to realize how much joy the simple things bring to you.  Ladies, I know I haven't said this in awhile, and although we don't know each other personally, I am so excited and proud of the strides we're all making to change our lives for the better.  Sending positive, loving vibes your way, and wishes that you can always find strength to face your challenges.

Hope you enjoy the pics and links...all images via shopstyle

                                                                  Miss Amercia                 Steve Madden 

Aldo

                                                  L.a.m.b                                                     Alejandro Ingelmo

Forever 21

Ermanno Scervino

Badgley Mischka

Chinese Laundry

Vince Cammuto

Have a Great One!

The Encouragement of Words

Sometimes you read something that has an effect on you, and you wonder to yourself if it was written specifically with you in mind.   Fear is something that is evident in our lives, especially when we allow it be a factor.  To say to you should never be fearful is unrealistic, instead I say to you if fear becomes apparent don't let it control you.  Finding the strength to overcome barriers proves that there is still a fight inside of you.  Sometimes the biggest obstacles we face in life is the battle within.  Though it may take some time, there is nothing in life that you can't overcome. Ladies stay inspired, and motivated.  Be eminent in all that you do, for your quest for success in love and life is not in vain.

Spoil Me Wednesday: Hot, Hazy & Humid = Mani & Pedi

The forecast in Orlando is slated for 90 degrees today, so I'm sure I'll be spotting sandals and open toe shoes all over the place.  Ladies, whether you choose to do your own at home or go into the nail salon or spa, I definitely recommend the treatment of a pedicure.  Just by wearing an eye catching pair of sandals you are putting your feet on display, so why not make sure they are properly groomed and dolled up to give your footwear that complete look? 

Personally I like to stay on top of my appointments by attempting a bi-weekly (at minimum) or monthly (at maximum) schedule.  Also I carry a tote (yes I carry a tote) for convenience, wich contains reading matireals, a notebook for jotting down ideas and my flip flops.  The best thing about this tote is that I drop it in my trunk of my car, hence making it readily available whenever I have an appointment, and in the event that I decide to go in on a whim I still have access to my stuff...trust me it works.

Here are some tips for your Mani/Pedi session:

Schedule your appoinment early- I find that the nail salon is hardly ever crowed, and I never feel rushed which makes me enjoy the session that much more.

Bring your own flip flops- of course a disposable pair will be provided to you, but walking away in your own pair is more comfortable in the end.

Magazine & Music-  I always try to bring reading matireal and of course my ipod; I usually use both

Carry cash if possible- some places add a $1, or more, surcharge for credit/debit payments 

                        

Here's to an awesome, relaxing mani & pedi!

I'm Love-sick Over VS Pajamas...Go To Sleep In Style!

Who says you can't look good before going to bed?  For  cute,  fashionable ensembles for the night time stretch you can always count of the Victoria Secret sleepwear collection for options.  The variations are colorful and comfortable.  Yes, I'm definitely lovesick over some of these pieces....especially PINK!  Here's to going to bed refreshed and relaxed, and waking up totally rejuvinated and ready to tackle on a new day.  Have fun shopping ladies! :-)

 

all images via

Staying Organized: Sometimes You Have To Be Anal About It

Hmmmm...Going from this (ugh)

To this...ahhhhhhhhhh (heaven)

Hello Ladies, I'm at it again with the organizing and this time the focus is on accessories.  Let me just say that staying organized, in anything you do, takes consistency.  No matter how many times you clean up, straighten up or put things away, if you don't follow a regimen you can find yourself right back in a pile of clutter; in my book, this is especially true when it comes to mail and paperwork (but thats an ongoing, maybe lifetime task lol). 

Recently we've talked about the coming of the spring season, and how the change in weather also brings a change in our social calendars; well in order to socialize you must accessorize so you could imagine my jewelry is all over the place.   Everytime I step out I wear a peiece or two, and when I'm out shopping it's always easy to be inticed by the latest looks and styles up for grabs. 

My temporary Solution: I've dedicated a portion of one of my dresser drawer for accessory overflow 

                  A more permanent fix (for now at least): a jewelry armoire

A jewelry armoire provides more space and dimensions to organize your accessories. They come in different styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits into the design scheme of your room or closet...now if that doesn't get you excited about organizing I don't know what will. 

Enjoy!