Making Changes and Upgrades

Moving On

I’ve been debating and weighing my options for a while now, and I have decided to move my blogging to WordPress.  I kept hearing from some readers they were unable to leave comments and/or had certain restrictions.  This is not what I want for anyone who visits my blog.  As I’ve stated in many of my blogs, I am very real and express myself through my writing, and I do not want anyone to feel as if they are being restricted.  I’ve been on a see-saw with blogging in the past and it is my hope to use this as a platform to connect with my audience.

Once I figure out how to import my blogs to this page, I will be doing so in spurts.  In the meantime, I will be posting here, so be on the lookout for more posts.

This page is also a work in progress, so please bear with me as I get familiar with my new surroundings.

I love feedback and welcome all comments.  Please feel free to comment and let me know your thoughts and if any of my posts have helped you in any way.

Thanks for stopping by.  Take care, and be well.

My First Color Run

PEI Color Run

Tomorrow is the Color Run, which will be held at the Charlottetown Event Grounds.  I’m real excited about it and the boys and I went in this afternoon to pick up our “gear.”  This is some cool stuff.

My first Color Run.  I set a goal in May that I want to run a 1/2 marathon.  This Color Run is the first step to me reaching that goal.  I’m even more excited that my entire family will be there tomorrow.  All of us together.  The boys and I participating, and hubby on the sidelines.

I’m pretty sore from this morning’s workout and I was worried that this might be too much.  Looking at the course, this is something we’ve done while walking in Summerside.  This will be a lot of fun.

Can’t wait for tomorrow.

Completing the Challenge – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 100

Stay the Course

This is it…my 100th blog post of my 100 Day Blog Challenge.  This has been an amazing journey.  I’ve been thinking about this blog challenge this past week and revisiting my blog posts.  It’s amazing how much has changed from day 1 until now.  

As with my other 100 Day Challenge, when I first started,  I was quite raw and a little all over the place.  I had an idea of what I wanted to do and what I would like to share.  It was just a matter of executing it and making sure my messages got across.

This blog challenge was a personal one.  There was no monetary value attached or some prize at the end.  This was a test of my writing ability and to be consistent with blogging.  What have I learned?  I’ve learned that the written word holds a lot of power.  I’ve learned that you don’t need to do anything fancy, just get started.  I’ve learned that once you make a decision on something, keep going and don’t stop until you’ve reached your destination.

I’ve learned a lot about goals.  I recognize and understand that goals are achievable, and you can also miss the mark.  I’ve missed the mark in some of my goals, even here with this blog challenge.  I didn’t blog for 100 consecutive days, and that’s okay.  When I first realized that I missed a day (Mother’s Day) I was devastated.  I put so much pressure on myself and I thought I was ruined.  Crazy, huh?  What I realized is that it’s okay to fall short.  It’s okay to miss a day.  I continued with the challenge and didn’t falter.  I missed a couple days; I continued with the challenge.  Some days, I had nothing to share; I continued with the challenge.

I’ve learned that I can do anything when I am determined.  I realize that no matter what others do around me, my success is up to me and me alone.  I realize that I am capable of

anything and I am a force to be reckoned with.

This was a great challenge.  It was a growth exercise for me.  Will I blog every day?  I’m not sure.  I will incorporate blogging into my routine because this has been such a fun experience.  I love to write; express my thoughts through words.

I have written 100 blogs.  What an accomplishment.  I can’t wait to see what I conquer next.

Thanks so much to all who have read my blog posts during this challenge.  I value your input and those who were just as dedicated to reading my blog posts as I was writing them.  I hope you continue to read my work and as always, welcome feedback and comments.

Take care, and be well.

Non-Financial Wealth – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 99

Non-Financial Wealth

Today’s topic goes to my hubby.  I’m on the last 2 days and completely stumped.  I like this topic he gave me and I’m excited to share some thoughts on it.

In today’s society, we are so consumed by money.  Debt, financial freedom, possessions.  Yes, it’s a part of our lives and something we all need to get better at controlling.  When we step back and realize the things we have that money can’t buy – living in a free country, the ability to live, work, eat, vote, speak our minds; we truly are rich.

Every day, I look at my boys and can’t believe how blessed I am and this amazing gift I was given.  I’m thankful for all the people who have come into my life – good, bad, indifferent.  They shape me into the person I am.  

Sometimes we have to step back, look from the outside and realize we are blessed.  We are free.  Many risk their lives every day to have what we have.  We should take a few moments every day to appreciate where we live, where we were born and what has been granted to us.  The tables could have been turned and we could be the third world country.  I even have the ability to share these thoughts through a blog post.

In closing, on those days when we feel as if the world is against us, life sucks, nothing is going right…just step back and take it all in.  Appreciate what you have because you never know when or if it will be taken.

How Have You Changed in the Last 5 Years? – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 98

Change and Growth

Wow, it’s coming so close.  I can’t believe this challenge is almost done.

For this topic, I needed a little help because I wasn’t really sure if I have changed over the past 5 years.  Many times, at least for me, I am not able to look outside myself and see how I’ve grown.  I also tend to be quite critical of myself.  So, this morning, I asked my husband this question and the one thing that he shared with me in how I’ve changed over the past 5 years is how I handle myself in adverse conditions.  He then went on to say that he’s noticed I don’t get overly stressed over certain situations as much as I used to because I am able to look at the big picture and realize there are some things which I cannot control.

That was a loaded comment for me and it also spoke volumes.  Then I started thinking about how I have changed over the last 5 years and that’s when things started coming together.  First and foremost, as a Mom, I have mellowed out quite a bit.  When the boys were younger, my stress level was through the roof.  I fussed over every move they made, what they did, where they were going.  I was almost afraid to let them make mistakes.  Today, I’m not as high maintenance with the boys.  They’re older and coming into their own identities and are handling situations as they come along.  I still worry and stress over them, but it’s not as overbearing as it was 5 years ago.  They’re growing every day and are turning into fine young men.  It’s something every Mom wants for her children and I’m doing it every day with mine.

As a Wife, I have learned to be more calm and open with my husband.  This is an area that was a bit of a struggle because he’s gone a lot for work and most of the time I’m left to hold down the fort.  When he would come home, we all would have to adjust and while I established a routine with the boys, my issue was always making that adjustment when he got home.  A lot of times, in my mind, I had things all worked out and then he’d come home and we’d have to re-learn a whole new routine.  Sometimes I felt a little resentment and it wasn’t necessary.  It’s the nature of our relationship.  Today, I’ve mellowed out A LOT in this area.  I still tend to get a little OCD with the routines, but I am not so high strung about it.  

In terms of our relationship as husband and wife, that has gotten better and still a work in progress.  Marriage is constant work.  It’s about building and developing those relationships, adjusting to each other’s needs and communicating.  It’s a lot of work and it takes both parties to be on board WITHOUT outside influences.

I’m starting to notice a pattern of high maintenance in my life.  Thank goodness I’ve mellowed out over the years.

As a business person, the biggest change I have realized goes back to what hubby said about how I handle adverse conditions.  When I first started out, I was all over the place – running around like a chicken with her head chopped off.  I was chasing this and that, no real focus, no real drive, no vision, no expectations.  A lot of times, I treated my business like spaghetti – throwing it against the wall to see what would stick.  That lead to lots of frustration, doubt, stress and a sense of not knowing.

Another area that has changed is how I deal with difficult/challenging people.  In the past, I would let people walk all over me or let THEIR thougths determine who I was as a person.  It wasn’t necessarily me trying to be liked by everyone or even be a “Yes” person.  I wouldn’t speak up and voice my concerns or my ideas because of a lack of self-confidence.  Today, I learn from those difficult/challenging people or situations and realize that at the end of the day someone else’s opinion is not my concern and that tomorrow, I will wake up, be fine and do it all over again.

Today, I am a better person.  I am a better mother than I was 5 years ago.  I’ve learned though my boys that I am very strong and as we all go through each of their growing stages, I can handle it.  As a wife, I am more open to our relationship and realize it’s not about always having things done my way or always being right (even when I usually am.)  As a business woman, I know my purpose.  I’m here to help change people’s lives.  I also realize that not everyone will be as receptive to what I have to offer and that’s okay.  There are plenty of people out there who need help and looking for me.  I will continue to search for them and make my presence known.

I know that what ever is thrown my way, I will be able to handle it.  These past 5 years are just the beginning and the stepping stone for greatness ahead. 

 I’m excited and can’t wait!!!

What Made Your Day Special? – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 97

Special Day

Two things happened that made the day special.  No, wait, make that three.

First, I was finally able to touch base with one of Elijah’s first “teachers” from the Head Start program.  It’s been 6 years, and he still talks about the experience.  He’s got a mind like a sponge.  I got to speak with her, reminded her of who we were and thanked her for all she did that year.  He had fun and I made arrangements to stop by sometime this week for her to see how he’s grown.  This made my morning.

Next, I got an invitation for a play date at the park with April and our kids.  The boys had fun, even though Elijah reluctantly came with us.  I wasn’t sure what was going on with his attitude, but when we got to the park (at their school) his whole attitude changed.  He saw some of his friends and had a blast.  Justus and Isaac had so much fun, and Justus got to spend time with one of his classmates.  April and I got to know each other better and it was a great afternoon for us all.  As an added bonus, the boys got ice cream from their grandmother.

The day was capped off with Elijah’s softball game.  Wow, what a game.  He and his team had a great day and came out the winners.  Elijah had a pretty impressive game as well.  A double, a triple, and 2 runs scored.  So proud of him.  He had great form, he followed through with his swings and made contact with the ball.  Oh, what a great game.  This was a real confidence boost for the whole team.  Great job all around.

 All in all, this was a really good day.  

My Pet Peeves – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 96

Some Things That Just Irk Me…

Back in May, I found a 31 day blog challenge that has specific topics for the day (and I’ve gone off the course with it, and came back.)  One of the topics was My Pet Hates, and for the life of me I couldn’t understand why I would talk about what my pet doesn’t like.  Well, after reading a couple of the posts, it’s what are my pet PEEVES.  The creator of the challenge is from Britain, so that’s were the translation was lost.  LOL.

So, I started thinking about this, and decided to share some of my pet peeves…things that really irk me and get under my skin.

Grammatical & Spelling Errors

Spell check should be a requirement for all who type.  I see so many incorrect posts across social media and I want to scream.  For me to go through all the errors that I see and that annoy me would take about 3 blog posts.  Sometimes I can’t even read certain comments.  A few errors, I can understand.  Heck, I’m not perfect.  I’ve found mistakes in some of my past blog posts.  But to use the same words/phrases incorrectly just makes my blood boil.  It’s almost as annoying as nails scraping across a blackboard.  Stop it, stop it, STOP IT!!!  These two images show some of these spelling/grammar crimes constantly committed on social media.  Read them, study them, do not make these mistakes EVER AGAIN!!!

Comment Wars

Why do so many people get into these lengthy comment wars on social media?  Why is it that people get this “power trip” with their words and do so by hiding behind their computer screens?  Would you say these vile and vulgar words to someone face to face?  Sometimes when I read these comments, it reveals their true characters, and let me tell you, this is one war I will not take part in.  No, thank you.

People Who Waste My Time

This is another one that could go on for a few blog posts.  This is especially prevalent when it comes to my business.  When you set an appointment with someone, specifically me, I expect you to keep your end of the appointment.  My time is just as important as yours, so what makes you think it’s okay to blow me off without so much as some kind of notice that you won’t show up?  I’ve set the time aside for YOU…have the courtesy to show up.

Not Changing the Empty Toilet Paper Roll 

Really?  You’re the last one to use the toilet paper, you see that it’s empty and you’re so damn lazy that you can’t take the empty roll off, throw it in the garbage and put on a new roll?  Don’t get me started on this one.

People Who Take Up 2 Parking Spots



There are no words for these types of people.  This image is my favorite and why we should all carry sidewalk chalk in the trunk of our vehicles.

Self-Centered People

Have you ever been around someone who ALWAYS has to include themselves in the conversation, no matter what it is?  Someone who has to have the spotlight no matter what.  You could be having a great day, a bad day, etc.  Every time you share a story this other person has to one-up you or shift the attention to them.  Sad, really.

Drama

Sometimes this goes hand in hand with the self-centered people.  However, those who are always surrounded by drama usually suck the life out of you.

Lateness

Nothing gets me more irritated than someone who cannot be on time.  If you know something starts or you should arrive at a specific time, make the effort to get there on time.  This goes hand in hand with those who waste my time.  Once again, what makes your time more valuable than mine?

Chewing With Your Mouth Open

I know what the food looked like BEFORE it entered your mouth.  I don’t need to hear your slobbering, lip-smacking chomping as you eat.  Have some respect.  I don’t want to see or hear that nastiness.

Manipulative People

They blame, accuse, are very controlling, don’t understand or respect boundaries.  These people will do everything to make themselves look good, not have any dirt on their hands and are always the victim.  They are never wrong – it’s always the fault of someone else.  When things are great, they take the credit.  When things are going horrible, they will dig up all the dirt on you and make it all your fault, and make you feel lower than dirt.  They make you question who you are as a person.  It’s sad, very sad.

I won’t go into more detail with this because I keep coming up with more pet peeves, and I will be here for a long time if I don’t stop.  We all have pet peeves – things that bother us.  Many of us share the same pet peeves and some are unique to us.  It’s sometimes fun to read about them because you can relate.  I hope this has been an entertaining read for you.

Thanks for reading.

Why I Blog – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 95

Why I Blog



It’s hard to believe there are 5 days left of this blog challenge.  It’s been an amazing journey.  I won’t reflect just yet since this isn’t my 100th blog. 

So, why do I blog?

I originally started with the intent on getting more into blogging and generate a new fan base.  I also love to write and share my thoughts on paper.  I’ve started so many journals over the years; some would stick, some would be sporadic.  The one commonality in all my journaling = I love to express myself through writing.

This is very therapeutic.  A way to express my thoughts and/or let out some frustration or just be funny.  It’s a trip down memory lane when you look back on your work.  I can’t help but smile, cringe and say, “What the heck were you thinking?!?!?”

It’s fun.  I have fun when I blog, and I plan to continue as it’s part of my routine.

Happy Birthday, America – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 94

A Special Day

Today is Independence Day.  America’s birthday.  This day in particular is very special for me.  On this day 17 years ago, my Mom and I were sworn in as American citizens along with hundreds of others at Hofstra University.  I grew up in the States, since I left Jamaica when I was 3.  I’ll never forget the day.  The weather was beautiful and there was the right amount of breeze.  Being surrounded by so many people who were there because they wanted the same opportunity as others.  Having that recognition made it all valid.  Proof that we belonged and had a right to be called American citizens.  It’s an amazing feeling.

Now, I am living in Canada.  Today, the boys played “O, Canada.”  They wanted to make sure I start learning the national anthem.  Right after playing the anthem, my oldest asked, “What song did you sing when you were in America?”  That one question spoke volumes to me.  I played the “Star Spangled Banner” for the boys and to this day, each time I hear that song, I get choked up.  Fully understanding the validity of the song and what today means to me, I can’t help but get emotional.

So, as the day is winding to a close, I hope all my American friends had a great 4th of July celebration surrounded by family, friends and love.  A friend of mine sent a great note today and a particular section sticks out the most – “We think freedom not as the right to do as we please but as the hope to do what is right.” It is my hope that we always remember those who fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Enjoy your weekend, be safe and all the best to you and your families.

Where Have You Travelled? – 100 Day Blog Challenge – Day 93

Where Have You Travelled?

I have had the pleasure of visiting quite a few places that have been very special to me.  I have travelled to a number of the States in the US – my first experience being California when my Mom and I came from Jamaica.  I lived there for 4 years and while I was fairly young when I was there, I have lots of fond memories of my time in California.  I have visited all the states on the Eastern Seaboard, while living in New York for 18 years.  New York is where I consider my stomping ground.  I grew up in Brooklyn; met and made some amazing friends while living in New York and am a New Yawka for life.  

A photo I took in Summer 2001 on my way back to Alaska from NY,

By far, my favorite place in the US is Alaska.  I lived there for 3 years, fell in love as we were landing and discovered that I can live on my own and come out fine on the other side.

Across the pond, my Mom, brother and I visited Birmingham, England to visit my grandmother and grandfather for 6 weeks during the summer of 1992.  I had a blast and what an education I got on grocery shopping.  This was my first experience of BYOB, and you also had to bag your own groceries.  I’ve been living in Canada for 11 years, and once again, I’m on a new adventure that’s sure to be memorable.

My travel experiences have been light, and that is something that will change in the near future.  What I will say is that each place I HAVE visited have been an experience I will always treasure.