It's Fall Y'all

Fall Is Here

What comes to mind when you think about fall? I usually think of cold weather, catching colds, high heating bills, snow and shoveling. I can truly say that I have not been a big fan of Fall. As a child, I didn't care that it was cold outside, I just wanted to keep playing. As I grew into a teenager and the coats got shorter and thinner, the biting air would literally freeze my behind off. In adulthood, I drag out the heavy, long coats and still cannot seem to shake the chill that runs through my body. Fall...I was definitely not a fan.

This year as I was driving down the street, I recognized how beautiful the trees were, with all the colors they had on them.

My mind does marvel at the beauty of the season and all of the magnificent work the Lord has put into it.

I saw the rolling clouds and how they reflected the light as the sun went down. I saw the sky change from gray to blue in just a matter of minutes and I had to say "How GREAT is our GOD!"

His handiwork is all around us, and all I could see is the impending cold (and flu) season ahead.

Well the buck stops here, little Missy. I am challenging myself to become more selfless and less selfish, this season. Many things I don't do because "It's too cold outside, " but what if I had to live in that state for an unknown amount of time? What if I had to make my home in a tent or under a bridge? I have to appreciate the fact that the Lord makes everything new and that Fall and Winter are a time of regeneration. It is an opportunity of thanksgiving and gratitude for all He had done for us.

What if I didn't know where my next meal was coming from? What if I lost everything? Because of the Lord mercies, I am not consumed, therefore, my heart goes out every time I see someone in a homeless shelter or out on the streets. I have learned to keep some change in the car, so when I see them, I can give them a few dollars to make it through.

This holiday season, I am going to energize my house with the outpouring of thanks for the things we do have and gratefulness for the ability to give to others. For Thanksgiving, I am extending my hand to help feed the hungry, homeless and even those without families. My children and I are not talking the talk, we are walking the walk. (I have some of those shirts if you need one, smile).

During the Christmas holiday, I am asking each one of my children to contribute some of their Christmas funds to help buy a meal for a family. You can do the same or something like it for someone else.

I would like each of you to pass this post on, and ask your co-workers, neighbors, classmates, and friends, to join me as I go out into the community and help others. I am looking for opportunities to be a bless, so if you know of some, email me at faithwithheels@gmail.com. The purpose of FWHs is to be a resource network, so we want to know about things happening in and around our communities. Help ME, HELP OTHERS!!!!!

Let us help you spread the word! Help us spread the Word. Check the newsletter for opportunities not only during the Major Holidays' (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years) but allllllllll year long!!!!

Your hands mean a lot to these organizations, your skills are needed and your life is a shining example of Love in Action.

Keep Walking!!!!!!

MiVida (also, I think that it would be great for someone to get these boots for me, be selfless why dontcha!)

Vince Camuto ~ Alician

Guess Who's Back?!

Hello All,

It has been quite a while since I posted on the blog. I took a little hiatus to gather my thoughts, reflect on my life and still my mind.

Sometimes it is important to begin to prioritize our lives in such a way that we come first. Since my last post, I have taken some time to grow a little.

Recently I posted on my twitter account, my feeling for the day. It was, "Patience....priceless, truth....golden, me....growing."

We all are in need of patience in some area of our life. I have been tested lately on the road in the car, in my finances, sometimes lack thereof, and in my relationships as it pertains to patience.

Am I able to wait? Do I understand or empathize with the views of others? Do I hold my peace? Two wonderful women in my life have given me some powerful acronyms for W.A.I.T. (one is Will Answer In Time and the other is Why AM I Talking.)

Patience ~ In patience I learn that the Lord (will answer in time) and much speaking does not avail much, so (why am I talking). I know that patience avails to me more than if I act in haste. Sometimes the wait reveals things that would not be exposed if I moved to quickly. Patience is truly priceless.

Truth ~ I do believe that we should speak the truth in love. And that our words should be seasoned with grace AND salt. We should desire in grace to edify and encourage but in the midst, the salt will correct, sting but heal others. Truth is a means of freedom. Truth has been tested and when we operate, speak and act in truth we are tried and purified, just like gold. Truth is truly golden.

Me~ What can I say about me? I choose to be true to myself. I choose to surround myself with people who will have patience with me as well and will speak the truth to me. I am still in a molding and shaping process, even at the age of 40 but I know that the reality is, I have to make changes that have a positive impact upon my life and those that are around me.

These are three attributes that I choose to work on for the rest of the year. Since there are three months left before 2011 (WOW), I have an opportunity to work on each one every month and build upon them.

Take the challenge! Think of three things that you can work on until the year is out and focus diligently on doing them daily. You pick, you decide and you do it. I believe in you!

As I move forward in my FaithWithHeels endeavors, I pray that each of you come along for the ride and work with us to do great things in the communities in which we live. We are hosting a SHOP for A CAUSE at Macy's on October 16th (any Macy's). Contact me to get your tickets $5.

Thanks for walking in faith with me,

MiVida

Shoes by Carlos Santana ~ Bossy

Oh No! Summer is Gone.

Remember when Summer was three whole months long?

I can recall when summer was full of lazy days and warm nights; running through the backyards of our houses; staying outside till the mosquitoes had indulged on our blood; catching fireflies and eating toasted marshmallows off of sticks we found in the yard (yeah, it was safe to do that). Those were the days. Summer was full of water fights and starry nights and we had all the fun we could ask for. We didn’t have cable just 2, 4 and 7; we did have Atari but only the “rich” kids, so it wasn’t one per household. We didn’t have T.Vs in every room, so you watched what everyone else watched and when you did get a T.V, it was the used black and white that had a broken knob.

Life was not as fast paced as it is today. There was only one phone in the house and you were blessed to have a two way. We did get along without cell phones, we knew what time to come home and we were happy about it.

As time marched on, those carefree summer days turned into much needed summer jobs to support our teenage plans. Even then it seemed that summer was so much longer. Our days were spent saving up our money and planning to go to Cedar Point or to the Fireworks Downtown by the end of summer. We loved the Bob-Lo boat and family barbeques. Summer was family time.

Adulthood has sucked all of the fun out of summer and squeezed all of the time into one long week. Suddenly summer seems to fly by me with no calling card or apparent traces that it has even come. Sometimes I can catch it’s coattails during a two day staycation or overnight trip with the girls.

Somehow…..This summer my entire calendar has been swamped with plans, programs, and procrastination. The time that I carved out for me has been merged in with life, business and church plans. It is important to keep our priorities in perspective.

This year I vowed that I would make time for things that truly mattered to me and for the most part, I have kept that promise to myself. I have initiated and become involved with issues that concern me, intrigue me and compel me to help someone else. However, I must admit that I have been seduced into some plans that had not originally had my name on them.

As soon as June rolled in my entire calendar became packed with so many events that my head begin to spin. Even though, I do count them all worthy of my time, I just feel like they all happened in one week.

This summer:

I attended two weddings on one day. Both were beautiful and romantic.
Prepared myself for the end of the school year and the girls being home all day.
The 4th of July which of course, that drags along for the entire weekend.
Visited family in the hospital.
Prepared for a dance concert. Oh the rehearsals!
I celebrated the birthday of my youngest daughter in Muskegon.
Attending Appreciation events, held meetings and hosting programs.
Danced in the concert and attending another Dance Concert.
Attending my Sister-in-laws wedding & reception, then hosted a conference for Girls in Cleveland, OH the following week.
My daughters participated in the Children’s Day at church. So again rehearsals were in order. Today is the birthday of my oldest daughter, so the celebration continues until the weekend while, Thursday is both school registration and also a pampering event in Novi (morning and night).
Alas…Summer is over…..Next week school starts for both me and the girls, so we will be back in the saddle again for Fall and Winter. Anxiously awaiting Summer again.

I am “Falling”, into Fall with much reluctance. It means that I am back to the routine and schedules of others, classes to attend and trudging through the cold and snow. Therefore, it is important to enjoy my summers.

My encouragement to you is to make the most of the time you have. Make sure to enjoy the rest of your summer. Lay in the hammock and swing. Catch fireflies. Toast marshmallows and run in the backyard. Blow bubbles and take a dip in the pool. Take a vacation (plan for the one next year). Say no!!!! Say yes to you and keep your own schedule. Do things that matter most to you and be excited about your life. Sometimes it is okay to be a little selfish with you and your time.

Each season release some of the plans, pressures, obligations that weigh you down and don’t be too quick to fill that time slot. Leave it empty and mull it over for a while. You will indeed find something fulfilling for the slot but it must be empty first. You might want to learn to bake, read a good book, write a book, knit or sew. You might just want to have an hour of peace. Go ahead you deserve it. Family and friends will understand. They are bogged down too and appreciate a non-invite to get their laundry done.

In the mean time…Keep Walking,

MiVida
Shoes by Michael Antonio ~ Kiley

Living Beyond Limits

Struggling doesn't always make you stronger; sometimes it can just make you tired. ~ Terry McMillan

No where in the Word of God do I find the actual word struggle. Therefore, I do not believe that we have been called to struggle. I keep hearing people say, "it's a struggle or I'm struggling". But I cannot speak these words in peace anymore. I know that the Lord has not called us to a life of struggle. He has promised that life will be more abundant, if it is in Him.

When I saw this quote from Terry McMillan (the famous, "Exhale", author), I knew that she knew. I am tired of struggling and I refuse to affirm my life in these terms.

Here are the affirmations I choose to use:

I am victorious.

I am living life abundantly.

I am the head and not the tail.

I am above and not beneath.

I shall suffer no lack.

God is my source.

I am healthy, wealthy and wise.

I give and not take.

I believe to see, not see to believe.

I am a peacemaker.

I am going to Jamaica!!!!

Ladies, we have so much power in the words we speak. Make your own affirmations, speak over yourself, encourage yourself. We have to use the positive to overcome the negative in every situation. As I move forward in my life, my dreams are getting bigger. So I cannot allow negativity, doubt or naysayers to infiltrate the positive words I know have been spoken over me. I want to be with people who are ~ Living Beyond Limits. And I want to affect people so much that they also want to live beyond limits.

I no longer see a boundary to my dreams. I believe that they can exceed the capacity of my vision and break all barriers of the terms I set. I believe that God is just that BIG that He can increase my faith beyond what I can see.

My dreams/life cannot be limited by finances, education, family, or people. My dreams are bigger than just me. My dreams include you and your dreams, so they are limitless. In Hebrews 11:3, we are told that "through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of thing which do appear." In other words, God dreamed and spoke non-existent things into being. What we see today, is a manifestation of a dream/vision of one.

I challenge each one of you reading this to really take some time and dream. Your dream should be for you. Write it down and review it for 30 days. Speak life into it. If it is a promotion, a scholarship to school, a business, a plan for your finances, etc. The key is to write it, make it plan, read it and run!!!!! Live in faith that the vision will come to pass. (Habbakuk 2:2-4). Don't stop starting to dream, because you might have to start over but don't struggle, LIVE!!!!

Enjoy life where you are, struggling is making you tired, not stronger.

I am learning that can find peace, joy and refreshing in small things. I can look beyond the limits to the hills, where I know I find my help. I can sit still and hear what the Lord is saying. And I can speak life, love, peace and grace unto the hearers. I can edify and glorify God through my life, my words and my good works. I can have all that He promised. I can LIVE BEYOND LIMITS and so can you. I'll be right here cheering us on!

Keep Walking in Faith,

MiVida

Keep Quiet

Psalms 141:3, James 1:19

I am learning to keep quiet. This is a challenge for me because I have an opinion about everything. I can weigh in on almost any subject and express, stress and validate my point because it is my opinion. But does my opinion really matter?

I took a reflective look at myself and realized that the very things that I instantly observe in others are parts of my own character. Some I like and some I dislike. In each of us, there are things that we need to improve upon and I am taking that journey in this season of my life.

As I desire to help others, I want to truly be helpful. I cannot take the baggage of the past into new friendships and dwell on the issues of old relationships and then try to separate the two when it is convenient. It just can’t be done. Just think about when a person moves from one home to another, typically they throw all of the trash out before moving to the new house, otherwise, they have to sort through it all when they get settled. Normally, the trash usually ends up in a remote corner waiting to be sorted through. However, I believe that before I can move fully into the next season of my life, some stuff has to be sorted through.

The lives that we lead are not myopic. Any given situation in our lives can be viewed in a multitude of perspectives. My view of a situation will be in direct contrast to someone else’s view. It doesn’t make my view irrelevant, just one sided. Because of this one sided view, I can miss details that often add value to the situation or conversation. That is why we must learn to keep quiet and listen more as the story unfolds. Many times, what I would quickly discard has great value and the things I hold on to a valueless. Not priceless, valueless (of no value). Since they hold no value, they do not require conversation or opinion. I am just going to toss it.

This week I met with a friend who told me that my blog has helped her because of the words that I use. This made me happy because sometimes I feel that I am just talking and no one is listening. However, after this meeting, I realized that my words do have a positive effect therefore they must be edifying and full of light. Will I not get angry? Will I not be truthful? No, but I will choose my words carefully and have peace in the words that I choose. I will be quick to apologize for my mistakes and be honest about my faults, and I will listen more to the hearts of others and not always the words because I do want others to hear my heart when I speak.

I encourage each one of you today to listen with your heart, don’t speak first, just listen; then use your words wisely. Watch what you say, say what you mean and mean what you say. There are people listening to the words and listening to your heart.

Keep Walking,


MiVida

Michael Kors ~ CutOut

My Faith Lifted Me!

For the past few weeks, my soul has been heavy. Even coming off of a fabulous weekend of fun, celebrate and joy for our Mother's Day Banquet, I still had some unresolved issues weighing on me. Spending time with 250 fabulous, beautiful and wonderful women of Faith, had me overjoyed. I was so excited, elated and ecstatic to see all of the love in the room. Love for one another and for the FaithWithHeels organization. Yet with all of this, I still had weight.

The things that are weighing on me are not easily resolved by me. I have had serious moments of despair, anxiety and overwhelming. I have awaken in the middle of the night asking the Lord for peace. I have had to get on my knees at 4:00 a.m. and talk with the Lord. It is during these times I try to grow closer to the Lord by reading the Word and being more still. I shut out all of the distractions and focus on what the root causes of the issues. Sometimes this helps tremendously and sometimes I just must wait for Him to answer.

I am beginning to realize that the assignments, missions or leadings of the Lord are not as easy as they may sound or seem. He often asks of me, so much more than I even think I had accomplish. And many times I feel very unsure and uneasy about what lies ahead. Because of my personal insecurities, I tend to procrastinate when it comes to moving forward in God. I am always waiting for the sign, the word, the move, the urging or some other miraculous, supernatural thing to assure me that the Lord is on my side. Yes I agree, HOW FOOLISH! but it is true. I do not seek out signs or wonders from God or man, but I am so glad when the Lord does show me His glory through His word, a song, a phone call or even the prayers and encouragement from others.

My faith in the power, ability, love and movement of God, is not unsure. I know that He can, is able and will do all He promises. What I often question is my faith in what I can do. I often leap before I look, which is both good and bad.

This week I am in the process of becoming an homeowner for the very first time and it has been a very trying time in my life. I am crying out to the Lord for wisdom, knowledge and understanding of the process and for His protection from anything that will cause hurt or harm. I am so grateful for the prayers of the saints all around this world. I received a very powerful email, from a sister in the Lord in California (you know who you are and yes, I am coming soon), she sent me an email saying that I had been heavily on her mind and heart and that her prayers were going up for me. WOW!!!!! This really boosted my spirits. Just knowing that there is someone out there praying for me. Not that I discount the fact that there are people praying, receiving this email to me was my commission to go on in Jesus' name.

I have been bombarded this week with the message of faith:

My niece texted me a "Keep the Faith" message.

My devotions this week were focused on faith.

And this morning a devotion http://charlyne.org/ came this morning ~ BE FAITHFUL

What does this tell you?!!!! It screams to me ---"God is faithful and my faith should rest with HIM."

Today I continue to speak life into all the situations that are weighing me down. God promises that He will take every burden from our shoulders (Isaiah 10:27). He is Faithful to do what He promises.

I know that the Lord has good things in store for me and when I am faithful He does just what He says.

I say to you, keep the faith because without FAITH it IS impossible to please God. My faith has been lifted through God's word, His encouragement and He signs, showing me that He cares so much for me. I pray today that you too are lifted through God's word and that your help comes speedily. As they say, "He may not come when you want HIM but God is always right on time." That is HIS faithfulness toward us.

Keep Walkin' y'all,

MiVida es de ORO!

My Life is GOLDEN!

logo by RiZel Photograpy

Rodnesha Edwards

Shine On!

Today the Webster word of the day is "Translucent". The definition reads: 1) not transparent but clear enough to let light pass through 2) free from disguise or falseness.

I woke up this morning with a desire to shine; to allow God's goodness to permeate every part of my life. I want to be translucent enough to let God's light shine through me. This word translucent really struck me because I often hear about transparency but never translucency.

Transparency is being totally see through, bearing it all, letting others see through you. I do believe that this is both good and bad. Good because we do need to allow others to see the real us. The things that are good, honest and true while also allowing them to see the shortcomings, faults and defects. However, this can be bad, because people will use this against you. Because they know the good and bad, they can highlight whichever they choose.

Translucency, holds back just a little, it only allows so much to be seen at a distance or time. Translucent items allow light through but filters as well. This too can be good and bad. Good because the Light of the Lord is still shining through. You can draw people to Him by letting His light pass through but it can be bad because you are guarded. A person will have to be up close and personal to even be able to clearly see through. The good thing about being translucent is that you are clear enough to let the "LIGHT" pass through and you can be free from falseness and disguise. YOU CAN BE THE TRUE YOU.

In Matthew 5:16, we are encouraged to "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." We are not to hid our lights nor are we to be ashamed of the light that is within us. We are to give our lights to others and also help others to shine.

My encouragement to every one reading this post is to "SHINE". Don't hide your light, always glorify the Lord and be as "transparent", "translucent" or "see through" as you can. Help others to "SHINE" and also encourage them to be everything that God has for them to be.

I look forward to hearing your testimonies of the "Light" that is within you and how you have helped others as well. This is going to be a great year of LIGHTING up this world with God's goodness, glory and power.

Keep Walking in Faith,

MiVida Burrus

Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

It Looks Like Goliath to me

Psalms 37:5 ~ Commit they way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and shall bring it to pass.

Hello All,

Many of us can recall the story of David and Goliath. David, the young inexperienced shepherd boy, had to fight against a mighty warrior of the enemy, Goliath. In the course of the story, David tells Saul about his triumphs over a lion and a bear. David was bold enough to declare that he would also triumph over Goliath in the same manner. This is such a great testimony of Faith (even if David wasn't wearing heels). (1 Samuel 17)

I had to tap into my faith reserve this week as we draw closer to the 2010 Mother's Day Banquet. My faith level had begun to sink well below the allotted range and I had that negative talk going on.

I was talking with a very good friend and she was explaining to me some things she would like to accomplish in the next few months. In my normal, excited way, I encouraged her that it would be easy for her to accomplish it. I gave her several examples of what she could do, how she could do it and who she could call to get it done. My friend says to me, "Well you do this all the time, so yeah it sounds easy to you." Why in the world did she say that?

Out of the abundance of my heart, my mouth began to speak. I began to run down all of the fears and trepidation that I often have in the midst of my planning. I gushed about what I wanted to see and how I wanted the plan to go. I let her know that within me there was much reservation. However, I did try to continue to interject my faith talk as I had pushed down, as much as I could, the unbelief that always tries to surface as I embark upon a new event, venture or idea. But sometimes it still lingers because I am not trusting as I should (or could). How quickly I forgot that I did triumph over a lion and a bear. But I admit that each new venture looks like "Goliath" to me.

Recently I asked my friends, "What have I gotten myself into?", while I am dragging them along for the ride. Their support, words of encouragement, love and help has made me stronger in my resolve to kick "Goliath's" butt. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I am taking my eyes off my plan and asking the Lord for His will to be done. And by golly is He doing it. The phone is ringing, ringing, ringing. (Yay!!!!)

This year is truly turning into a Walk of Faith because I am letting go and letting GOD and it is good to know that I have some Faith Walkers along side of me. "Goliath", we declare that you are going down in Jesus' name. Ladies, we are lifting up a banner of Faith over everything we put our hands to do. We are victorious in Jesus' name. There is no fear in Christ Jesus because perfect love casts out all fear.

Stay tuned to our exciting new developments and join us by supporting the Mother's Day Banquet at Pi, by sending us a donation to keep working the work or by attending our 2010 FaithWithHeels launch party slated for Fall of 2010. With your help we can infuse "Faith" into those who need it the most. Help Us, Help Others.

In the meantime....Keep Walking,


MiVida

Walking In Faith

2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, and not by sight.)

For the past two years, I have written about my faith walk. I have chosen to reveal things about me and my life that are humorous as well as painful. Sometimes it is not easy to talk about your feelings because everyone doesn't understand or accept your thoughts. But for me it was a way allowing the stresses to be released and sharing the joy of my life with you as well.

What began as just a way for me to purge some of my frustrations through writing and clearing my head, has grown into a powerful connection of women who love to support help and bless one another. I am not like Paul, where I glory in sufferings, but I am glad that I have experiences things that have drawn me closer to women like you. I am so glad that you take the time to read about me (and you) and to comment on it.

It is especially wonderful to know that your faith is growing as well. Many of you have reached out to say that something touched you or that it was a good post and that does my heart well. Many of you have taken a leap of faith and started businesses, workshops and even new projects because your faith has grown. And to that I say YAY!!!!!!!

Every morning when we wake up, we all realize that one more day had been granted to us to do God's will. Some days we feel like we can conquer the world, other days not some much. But is is our choice as to how we handle those days. Do we surround ourselves with people who uplift and inspire? If we do, those days become a blur in comparison to having someone who loves you because of you and help to lift you up when you are down. You have to choose to increase your faith. I had a challenge this week and I dare the rest of you to take it. No negative words, thoughts or actions for a full day. If you accept to choose this mission, you must only speak life, words of encouragement and act in faith. If you fail, you must give 25 cent for each negative thing (the money should be donated to charity, someone on the street or someone in church).

Well I did fail. I allowed myself to fall into a negative speaking trap. I had to chalk up $3.50. Now may negative talk included being stuck in traffic, crazy drivers and getting lost in Downtown. Each of these situations were not unto death, didn't effect my overall health and were over in minutes. Doesn't the Bible speak of the little foxes? Those negative words and actions did impacted me. I realized that I have to do so much better to let my light shine. I have to do 14 times better than I did on Tuesday.

Negative words can deplete our faith. Because we are not confident in a good outcome. The negativity can spread and also infect others. Our positivity increases our faith because we our now speaking life into our situations. If Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word, then when we speak positive things out loud, don't we hear it as well?

Faith is also something we must put into action. I have found that in my walk of faith, I have had to rely heavily upon the word of God but I have also had to put that faith in the Word into action. It is not enough to say I believe, but what is my belief sparking me to do? What is my belief compelling me to work towards?

Every day that I have off from work, I try to do something of faith towards my personal, business and spiritual goals. Sometimes it is easy because of the things I want to see accomplished but sometimes it is hard because I limit my faith.

Walking in Faith is intrinsic to us all. The simple act of getting out of bed is a walk of faith, because you believe, know and are sure that you can do it. (Although as I reached 40, I found that sometimes that is a faith elevator.)

Each one of us have something that we believe in, are sure of and know without a doubt. But it is those things that challenge that cause us to lose faith. Next month as we host our second Mother's Day Banquet, my level of faith is definitely increasing. I have to walk assuredly, knowing that the room is already filled with women and that we are going to have a wonderful time in the Lord. I cannot use my natural sight to elevate my faith, but I must see, pray and believe in the spirit that it is already done. I see your smiling faces, I hear the music, I see the dance, and I am tasting the food. All within my spirit.

I am challenged. But my faith overcome all challenges and help me to know that God is for me. I draw upon that faith and move to a different level each time FaithWithHeels hosts an event, helps the community and shows our support to others. God shows me that He has never left nor forsaken me.

My walk of faith is not just for my personal achievement, but it is to encourage you to pursue!!!!!

If I can, you can. If I am, you are. If He gave it to me, you have it to. Walk in Faith. Close your eyes and take the step. If you don't know the path, He will show you. I didn't start out knowing when, where, how or why but each time I close my eyes and ask Him for direction, the path appears but I must be walking in Faith to find it.

Keep Walking,

MiVida es De 'Oro!!!!!

My Life is Golden!!!!

shoes by Yves Saint Laurent

Lordy, Lordy Vee is 40

OH My!

I recently turned 40 years old but I don't feel a day over 29. Well maybe a day or two with the new aches and pains but I won't complain. I made no big hoopla over my birthday this year (but everyone knows a celebrate just a little longer than I should). Not because I was ashamed or upset about my age but because my focus changed a little.

Yes, I do love celebrate my birthday and my life. I love even more that the Lord has granted me one more day, another year and always a second chance. Although my birthday was uneventful, it was hugely joyful. I planned to have no plan this year. Actually I planned to stay in the bed all day but the day was too beautiful to stay indoors. My plan was a day of freedom, no obligations. Sometimes, the best gift can just be being at peace. I enjoyed those 4 minutes and then got up to take the girls to school, grab some breakfast, do some shopping, pay some bills, tried to go to the show didn't work out, dropped the girls to a meeting at our church, gulped hot coffee at a local cafe', came back to pick them up and melted into the bed. Happy Birthday to me!

But all day I was so grateful to feel the love of many family members and friends as my phone rang constantly. I smiled a little each time a text popped up, a voicemail chimed or emails came through.

I did choose to take a few hours to spend with the Lord in just quiet before I left the house. I felt that I had accomplished my goal, sitting at the feet of my father; resting in His presence and tuning out the demands of the world.



Since the onset of 2010 I have been running like the energizer bunny, I sleep but don't rest. And recently I found that my stress level was at a all time high, when my hair began to fall out. I held the stress inside so long that something had to give. I thank Him for keeping from something more severe.

This month I chose to say goodbye to all the stress and stressors. I choose to take command and not be at a demand. I stopped for a minute and reflected on what is important to me. Cause when I dead and gone, life will go on.





This year is proving to be greater than the years before. The Lord is moving FaithWithHeels forward and He needs me to be in the best health and emotional state this year. I keep hearing Him say to me "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. "





Now just imagine Jesus calling you Martha, when you want to be Mary; when you want to choose the good part; when you think you are helping. He told me that he wants me, not just service from me but me.





I realize that 40 ain't so bad actually it is all good. It is good that I am able to bless the Lord every day I wake up. It is good that wisdom and understand come with age. It is good that revelation and celebration come with age. And it is good that elation comes from knowing that you are loved at any age.





Thanks to you all who have blessed my life these 40 years: Both of my moms, both of my grandmothers, my father, my children, my husband (smile), my entire family, my new found family, my friends through thick and thin, all the new friends I have made and will make this year. You have all contributed to making me be the best me and I am still in process and progress, you ain't seen nothing yet!





Keep Walking,








MiVida es De Oro!


My Life is Golden!
Shoe by Paris Hilton ~ Destiny
Available @ www.shoes.com

Keep Living!!!!!

Keep Livin'

In John 10:10, Jesus told us: "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly."

How many of you have heard the saying?: Just Keep livin'.

My grandma used to say this sometimes. And at the time I couldn't understand what she meant. "Just keep livin'." She was warning me that throughout all of my life I will experience enough things that will try to tear me down but I have to allow them make me stronger. My grandmother endured hatred, segregation, jim crow, being called out of her name, and living in America as a woman. And in spite of all of that, she still was regal, kind and loving in her own way. She was a strong, peaceful and beautiful woman. She kept living.

During my life I have experienced enough to know that through it all I can keep livin'. I still experience times when I need guidance and direction but I know that if I keep livin' I will make it through. This year I turn 40, yes the BIG 40, but I am not afraid to say it. I will keep living.

Jesus promised that I could have "life...more abundantly" and I am definitely going to keep livin' to see, experience, and be thankful for it. Despite what the has come up against me in the previous years, I am learning to come into my own. I am learning that I can stand in the midst of adversity and still be advocated by the King. I am learning that "no weapon is going to prosper".

40 years is quite a long time, but in actuality, there are only about 20 years of true life learning and experience.

In my teens: I knew nothing. I thought I knew everything. As as Malteen would say, too big for my own britches but I kept livin'.

In my twenties: I knew better. But I made a lot of mistakes. I found out that some things were just not worth it. And I kept livin'.

In my thirties: I knew more about me. I lost some people and things but gained a whole lot more of both. I found me and began to love me more because I just kept livin'.

Now that 40 is only 30 days away, I am so glad that I am still learning, loving and living me. When I look back I realized that my teens were expended on friends; my twenties were expended on my independence; and my thirties were expended on my family and job. I do not regret any of these things but now I am asking, where/who/what/why/when am I?

I don't have all answers to many of these questions but I am finding my way as I "Just Keep Livin'." About two years ago I started saying that I am, "Living my life (Mi Vida) like it's Golden." And this I do believe because I have and will be tried in much fire, but I am coming out as pure gold. I believe that what has transpired is only for my good and it is to save much people alive. I believe that my faith will increase and will be extended to generations after me. I believe that I have the right to believe God for any promise He has extended unto me. There is only one thing that is needed.... I have to "Just Keep Livin'."

In the meantime, I'll Keep Walking (in Faith),

MiVida es de Oro

My Life is Golden!

Mui Mui Swarovski

Sound Familiar?!

All I can say is WOW! (This is a long post, but well worth it.)

This year has started off with a "bang". I am so excited about the opportunities and blessing that are coming to each one of us. We are truly on the edge of an exciting breakthough and we have to be prepared to let God do what He do.

In January, FWHs hosted the Winter Retreat Spa Day. Many days I tolled, worried and cried about this event. I couldn't see how I would pay the bill; how I would get professionals in to help me; or how to even pull this off. But I kept forgetting the one element of my life that is most important ~ HAVE FAITH!

The weeks leading into this event, I could feel the pressure. Our ministry held our corporate consecration period and each day we had a focus.

Day 1 ~ Due Order - Get your life, house, planner, self in order

Day 2 ~ Sacrifice ~ Give up something that you hold dear to see the manifestation of the Lord

Day 3 ~ Sanctification ~ Set yourself apart and turn away from things that are holding you back

Day 4 ~ Praise & Thankgiving ~ Give Praise to the Lord and Thank Him in Advance

Day 5 ~ Requesting God's Glory ~ Just ask Him

Day 6 ~ The Help of God ~ Who doesn't need His help?

Day 7 ~ Getting Rid of Tobiah's Stuff ~ Get rid of the things that you know are a hindrance to God's Glory in your life

Day 8 ~ Corporate & Intercessory Prayer ~ Pray for someone else.

Day 9 ~ Alms ~ Give, Give, Give!

Day 10 ~ Sweet Communion

These 10 days were very important for me. However, my breakthrough came on Day 6 ~ The Help of God. As I cried out to Him about what was plaguing me. He assured me that He would never leave nor forsake me. And as the tickets were slow to sell and the professionals were dropping off, I cried out unto the Lord even more. HELP!!!!!

The week of the event, I had two additional professionals tell me that they would not make it. The day before, one more. But just like Gideon, God had to get me down to the bear minimum to show me that He was in control. I had to HAVE FAITH that everything was in order and that He knew best. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!!!!!!

Well........

We had a great time. This event was well needed. I met some new lifetime friends and reconnected with an old classmate. Some of the ladies knew each other from other areas in life. It was truly a blessing to know that some connections were made. Every woman I met was so special and we will stay connected. There was much fellowship, women just being themselves and love floating throughout the room. This truly exceeded my expectations and we are going to do it again. (I promise.)

I give thanks to:

Irene's Myomassology Institute ~ 26061 Franklin Road, Southfield, MI 248 350 1400 ~ They showed out! All of the ladies were truly blessed by their massage and their technician. You did a fabulous job and Lauren Bass, you are the greatest! Thanks so much for joining us and also for being a great support.

Heather Baker & Rhonda Robertson ~ Nail Techs ~ They went over and above. Their professionalism and love exuded in each hand and foot they touched. And even when I asked them to do less, they did so much more. Love ya!

Katie Dubuc ~ Esthetician ~ Katie jumped in and worked it out. She is a professional facial expert located in Commerce Township but I am sure she will travel to work it out for you. She was so sweet and wants to join us next time. AMEN! Katie see you in July.

Ms. Liz ~ Eyebrows/Nails ~ Ms. Liz can work some brows. Go in looking hairy and come out looking fab! She can make your whole face look good with a brow arch. Love you tooooo much!

Edna & Racquel ~ Make-Up Artistry ~ You pull out the beauty and I thank you both for your extra support, when I am trying to walk on water.

Krysti & Amina ~ Mary Kay Experts ~ These ladies were soooo helpful, beautiful and a great source of knowledge. They provided the best facials in town. Their products are proven and they would love to be your consultant.

Bridget King ~ Baby Nails ~ Thanks Sis, for working out the babies. I didn't know what I would do but as always, you've got my back.

All of our vendors:

RiZel Photography - Rodneshia Edwards

D'Essence Perfume - Tonia Hickman

Krystal Palmer - DDTC Fragrances

Spirited Infusions - Jewelry

Rhonda Robertson - Jewelry

Fabulous Boutique - Scarves, mugs and gift items.

And I thank each one of you who attended, prayed and participated. You don't have to expend your money, time or energy but you always do. It is such a blessing to be among people like you. Thanks for purchasing your tickets, coming out to join us and being a support to FaithWithHeels in anyway. We do not take it lightly.

With January behind us and February pushing in, I am growing excited about our May Mother's Day Event (May 8, 2010). What's going to happen then? I can't even imagine what God has in store for you and me. Check out the FaithWithHeels on Facebook and join Supporters of FaithWithHeels facebook page to get updates on what we are doing next. (We are also on twitter & linkedin).

Thanks for your prayers and love each time you read this blog.

In the meantime, Keep Walking!

MiVida

Winter Retreat Spa Day!!! is 3 days AWAY

Join us this Saturday for the Winter Retreat Spa Day! This is a day of relaxing and fun! Tickets are $30 in Advance and $40 at the Door. Get yours by calling (313) 310-9405 or email us at faithwithheels@gmail.com to reserve your space.

You receive 30 min full body massage provided by Irene's Myomassology Institute in Southfield, MI, one spa service (manicure, pedicure, facial, eyebrow arching or make-up) and a strolling lunch. We have give-a-ways and plenty of surprises. Come out and help us raise awareness and funds for LIFT Women's Resource Center (http://www.lift-wrc.org/) in Detroit, MI.

Get your tickets today and LIFT someone else today.

Kudo's to Carol's Daughter

Today I just want to say thank you to Carol's Daughter (Beauty by Nature). I contacted them and asked if they would be able to help us with our Winter Retreat Spa Day by donating a few items to us. And Glory be to God, they showed up and out.

I emailed Lauren Blanche several months ago and she put me in touch with Sarah Trachenberg. I emailed Sarah last week and yesterday I had a big box on my door step*. When I got in and opened it, it was filled with goodies that we can use at the Spa Day and as give-a-ways.

It is truly a blessing to be blessed by people who don't know you but believe in what you are doing. I do use Carol's Daughter Products, especially the Tui Oil on my hair. I am going natural and this keeps it soft and moisturized. My girls use the Hair Milk and my oil when I am not looking. This was truly unexpected because I thought I would get a few items for give-a-way but boy did they give to us.

These products are dear to me because I am also a Carol's daughter. My mother was Carol Ann Gray. So Lisa Price, ladies named Carol make good girls and we are living proof.

Hope you all come out to the Spa day and see if you get to go home with one of these wonderful prizes.

Thanks again and check out their link I have posted to order you some.

http://www.carolsdaughter.com/

In the meantime, Keep Walking,

MiVida