Dropping By

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to drop by and say "HI". I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Christmas. We had a small Christmas. We have not had Christmas with the grandkids yet; going to do that this weekend. It just didn't work out to have everything together this year. But that's ok, I wish we had stayed home on Christmas when my children were small. Seems like they did not get to enjoy their gifts because of all the rushing and going to different relatives homes. Oh, well....

I'm ready to see the babies too! Feels like I haven't seen them in a long time. They are only small for a little while, then they are off and gone. I told Terry next year I want to do a trip with the family at Christmas. We have everything we want, really. I would love to take them somewhere and enjoy a good family time. As you know I love to go to the mountain here in NC. Its just so much fun and family friendly. I don't know, we will see what everybody schedules look like. That's going to be the hard part, lol.

I am looking forward to a new year. 2019 was a little bit difficult, but also had it's blessings. I usually start a new personal bible study every year. On January 1st I get my journal from the previous year and look through it to see all the prayers that were answered and the ones, that were not but still praying for. I love to do that. To see what God has done throughout the year. Some small, some big, and some; like I said, still waiting.

My family knows me well. They got me some new reading and studying material for the new year and I can't wait. I love to study as a group, the thing about getting alone with your Bible and God is a whole different experience. To be honest, I was slack on that this year. I didn't spend as much time in my study or making time for Him I should say. I could tell it too! A relationship with God is like any other you have in your life. You have to spend time, ask questions, tell what's going on in your life. I know God knows this stuff already, He still wants to hear it. It might sound elementary to some, but I can be elementary a lot of the time.

I am the type of person that has to stay in the Word. My life would be a chaotic mess if not. I've lived that way before, I don't plan on going back. I am amazed by God's grace and mercy He has shown this woman. I did my best to mess her up, thought I succeeded one time, maybe two....but God....He has His own plan. It wasn't easy and some days they still aren't. God shows up every time. I will always praise Him for it. When we(I)get busy with whatever is going on in our lives at the moment is when we (I) lose focus on God. Like at Christmas, we get busy and lose focus of why God sent Jesus.

I went a LONG time and didn't know Jesus, knew of Him but not Him. And girlfriend, I want everyone to know Him. He is my everything. I will tell you one day all the mess He had to clean up. It was a lot of piles, but He can do it. Only He can clean like that.

But not today. Today I want to encourage you that a brand new year is coming. Full of potential and promise. A new start, new habits, new goals. Oh, I'm so excited!!!  I hope you all are too!

I am so humbled by each one that stops by and reads my blog. I have a few ideas for the coming year. Makeup, fashion, trips and of course the Word. Thanks so much for being a part of this community. I love you all!

See you next year!!

Blessings,

Dawn

It's Christmas Time

Hi everyone!

Christmas is just a few days away. The countdown is officially less than 5 days!!! It happens just as quick every year. Although this year I did finish my Christmas shopping early; and as in finished, I mean I ordered my last present from Amazon this morning after church, lol! I am one that makes sure everyone has the same amount of gifts to open, so I was lacking one and I fixed it. Praise the Lord for Amazon Prime.

I get really excited about Christmas. The kids come over Christmas Eve, opening presents, watching the little ones with the new toys and outfits. Just being together. The older I get the more I want just my family. Being with them during the holidays is more special to me than any gift they could buy me. We do the same thing every Christmas Eve. Brian and Brittany come home from Wilmington and spend the night. We watch Christmas movies and eat, usually too much! And yes, even though they are grown my kids get stockings and Santa still comes. It's tradition, right? We open gifts Christmas morning while Terry and I cook breakfast. Simple, just the way I like it.

This year we will see the grandkids, Allan, & Melisa at different times. Our schedules just did not work out this time. I don't want the kids to feel like they have to be everywhere at once. They need to be home at Christmas.

Speaking of home, there are some of us that will be missing their loved ones at home this Christmas. Whether it be a death, sickness, serving our country, or a conflict in the family. Some spend this season feeling totally alone. I want to encourage you that you are never alone, never. God is always with us. With us at all times and all situations. God sees us EXACTLY where we are. Nothing goes unnoticed by Him. So whatever it is you are going through sweet friend, tell Jesus. Tell Him how you feel. Give it to Him. He is the only One that can mend the broken-hearted, heal the hurt and comfort the lost. Jesus, He is all you need.

During all this busyness the next few days, stop to thank Him for all you have. All He's done and going to do. It's Jesus birthday let's celebrate Him. Smile, hold the door, buy a cup of coffee for the lady behind you. You will be surprised how far these little acts of kindness go. Bless someone and you will be blessed in return. We all have stuff, things we are going through; serving others helps us heal and show Jesus at the same time.

What are some of your Christmas traditions? I would love to hear some of them. Just leave a comment below. I will try to do another post before Christmas, but if not; have a Merry Christmas!

Blessings and love,

Dawn


Matthew 1:20-21 (NIV)

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,[f] because he will save his people from their sins.”

Weekend Getaway

Hi Everyone!

I hope you all have had a good Monday. I'm just getting home, I was at work all day today. Playing catch up, which wasn't bad. I have some great co-workers that helped out so I could have a day off last Friday. That was such a blessing.

My husband, Terry and I took off to Boone, NC for the weekend. JUST US! We haven't done that in a while. We had the best time. Terry bought us tickets to Tweetsie Railroad to ride the train and see the Christmas lights on the mountain. It was just magical; all those lights. But it was also cold and drizzling. We didn't care though, we were like to two little kids looking at all the lights and activities that were there.

The park had all manner of activities for every age. Human snow globes, Gingerbread Houses, Santa and Mrs. Claus, a Christmas show plus the Train Ride. Also, food and shopping; which was right up my alley. We really had a good time. I normally don't like a lot of crowds; my anxiety gets up some. I guess it may have been the weather that keep some people home. Although the train ride did get my anxiety up! The sounds that train would make going around the mountain, in the dark, not knowing what was coming ahead of us. I kept saying, "God's got this, I'll be fine", and I was. Sometimes it is crazy how we let our minds runaway like that.

Saturday we drove up to Banner Elk to shop a little, but that was stopped because it started snowing. Terry and I stopped at a coffee shop to get a cup and wait it out. It was so pretty. Just the picture of the mountains with that snowing falling; watching it with my coffee. I don't know if it was because it's Christmas season or what, but it was just so special to me. Like God was putting on a show. I could have sat there and watched it all day.

I am a home body, I don't like to leave my home much. Especially since we have our fur babies, Elliott and Lucy. Both are rescue kitties. I just love them. Terry's brother usually comes by and takes care of them, but it's not like being home. I told Terry I was kind of disappointed that we were going home Sunday. I would have liked to stay longer. He was so surprised, it was kinda funny. I'm always, ALWAYS, ready to go home. Like way early, like 5 in the morning ready, ready yesterday kind of go home, lol. So saying he was surprised is an understatement.

We did have a great time. I don't think we would have went if we waited until the time was right. We booked and bought tickets only a few days ahead of time to leave. Those are the fun trips. Besides, if we wait around until we have time to do things; we may never do them. Make time for your loved ones. Especially your spouses. Its so easy to get in a rut, same ol', same ol'. We are creatures of habit and I like my comforts, but I love my man more. Weekends like this past one does a marriage good. We had no agenda other than the train ride, but we got to do that early. You never know what you might learn about each other if you don't spend time together. Raising kids and taking care of parents has to be done too, I completely understand; been there done that. You don't want to look over one day after the kids and the parents are gone and wonder who you are married to??? Take time for each other. Do date night. Go to Lowe's with your man, (I can't stand that place), but I go because I love Terry.

I heard this saying one time that marriage isn't 50/50 its 100/100. Both of you giving everything you have. I can't remember where I read that, I'll to find out. Relationships are hard work, no one is easy to live with. But if you love each other, it's so worth it.

Below are some pictures from the weekend. If you ever get a chance to go to the NC Mountains, please go. They will not disappoint you.

Have a FaBulouS week!!

Dawn

Psalm 89:10 (CSB)
10 Faithful love and truth will join together;
righteousness and peace will embrace.

Christmas Shopping

Good evening y’all! I’m a little late putting my post up. I’ve had an extra full day. Not at all what I had planned. Although I did have my day planned out it just was a little fuller than I was expecting. But it all worked out, it always does.

After church this morning my husband and I drove to Smithfield for a little lunch and Christmas shopping. We had the best time; looking at all the decorations and Christmas trees. Everything is so beautiful this time of year. We ended up at Walmart shopping for our grandchildren. It’s hard to buy for them sometimes because they have some much already. I was stressing because I don’t know what they are even into. We have a teenage girl, grandson that is 9 and into Fortnite (insert eye roll) and a precious 3 year grand daughter that wants in her words “any and everything”, lol. She is a hoot!

Well, Terry and I decided on a gift to get “lil mama”; that’s what we call our youngest grand daughter because she is bossy. Terry put extra of that same gift in the cart along with a few more things. I’m thinking  the whole time this isn’t fair. Lil mama is going to have more gifts than the others. I said something to Terry about it. He calmly said they aren’t for her. There is another little girl we mutually know that may not have a Christmas this year. Let me tell you, God checked me right there in the toy department.

There are people all around us that are struggling and having a hard time; would never ask for help. It is our job to seek, serve and love on these folks. By no means are Terry and I wealthy, but what we do have we will share. You don’t have to have a bunch of money to show God’s love. We are to be His hands and feet. To serve the needy, whatever that may be.

Anyway, I already had a wonderful day and this just topped it off. To help, to meet a need, out of love for others because He loves us first. Love on your people and others. Kindness and a friendly smile doesn’t cost you a thing, but will mean the world to the other person.

That’s all I have for today friends. I hope you have a FaBulouS week. If you see a need please meet it. This old world needs it.

Blessings,

Dawn

Hello December

Good Morning sweet friends!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Full of laughter, love, friends and loved ones. We had a great Thanksgiving. We were missing a few family members and of course the ones that are no longer with us, but we had a great time. I need a couple of days to rest from the week. It sure was a busy one. I guess everyone is busy this time of year.

It's finally December 1st and I actually went with a girlfriend of mine to Raleigh yesterday; in the rain I might add, to do a little Christmas shopping. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. People were really nice and wanting to help customers and such. Funny how the Christmas season will change some of our moods. Most people are happier around this time of year. I think its the gift of giving that helps us get in the mood.

Pastor was speaking on letting our light shine all year long this morning. He was referencing the lights at Christmas. Around here we put lights on anything that will stay still! But anyhow, the Pastor was right. God sent the Light into this dark world on Christmas so that we may be light also. We are to share our light with others. I always talk about having a purpose. People are born with a mission for their life. Some great that stand out for everyone to see and others are kind of behind the scenes. You know, the kind of serving and sharing your light that only God sees. I think, this is just me, but the "behind the scenes" serving is the most important. That's the one on one, really getting to know the needs of someone or ones.

There are some hurting people out in this ole world. Some may or may not show it. We all have our "ugly", as I like to call it, to go through. Coming from experience, its the ones that just sat and let me walk through that ugly to get to my purpose. Never judging, never condemning; just loving and praying. Folks, that is what matters. Loving on people while they are hurting and helping along the way. Knowing that I wasn't alone through those dark times was important to me. That's what I hope you all get out of this blog. Encouragement and laughter, with a dose of what Pastor called where we live this morning "Realville"

This world is hurt and hard to live in at times. Let's pray for each other, love one another, no judgement. God loves each and EVERY one of us.

So let you light shine, girlfriend and guyfriend! You never know who needs to see it.

Have a FaBulouS week😀

Blessings,
Dawn

Thanksgiving and Remembering

Hey Ya'll!

I hope everyone has had a restful Sunday. I certainly did. I finally got to take me a nap. Whew, I love a nap, especially on Sunday. I feel so much better, so rested.

I worked really hard yesterday around the house. We have a lot going on this week. Telephone meeting tomorrow night.  I am having a LimeLife by Alcone party Tuesday night. A small Thanksgiving dinner with my son and daughter Wednesday night and hosting The Weeks Thanksgiving,  Thursday at dinner. Plus, working full time. I would not have it any other way.

My husband Terry, drug all the Christmas decorations out for me and we worked and worked on that all day yesterday. After church today we headed to Lowe's Home Improvement for another project he is building. That man loves to make stuff. I will have to take some pictures and show of some of his work. He really is talented even if I do say so myself. Anyway, we most of the inside done. Although I am looking two small pencil trees to put in the bedrooms. If I find them ok, if not, that's ok too, lol.

Yeah, we have been busy and will be busy right on up until the New Year. Not only do we have all the extra events and parties to go to and host. Both of us work at the local grocery store and it tends to get a little busy around this time of year. But I love it, I left the store for a few years and went into banking. I like that too, but there was something about bonding with your customers that was missing. So, I had the opportunity to go back and I took it. There's nothing like home, even if its a grocery store.

I guess that's why I love Thanksgiving so much. With both my parents and my husband's parents gone now, it really makes the Holiday season more special. Spending time with your family and friends, make time for them; not just the gift exchanging that you do at Christmas. It's the fellowship at Thanksgiving I love. Cooking and preparing all those dishes out of love. Making special and certain dishes that you know your child or friend would love to have and can only get to eat around this time of year. Making memories, talking about old times, picture taking with everybody around the table or in my case tables. Its just a wonderful time.

And of course you remember the ones that are no longer with you. We have had a lot of loss in our community lately. Seems more tender around the Holidays. The Pastor was speaking this morning at service that the depression and suicide rate goes up this time of year. Its really heartbreaking to me that there are people out there with no hope. I have lost family members like that, really close family members that are struggling. We have to keep praying ya'll. That's the only thing that is going to help them. PRAYER!!

So let's be Thankful for all the things we have, not just material; but all things! I have a sign a by back door that says there is always something to be thankful for. This Thanksgiving and Christmas season let's be THANKFUL for all the things we have, hey; and maybe some of the things we don't have anymore. Tell somebody how thankful you are, encourage someone.

Below are just some of the decorations we have put up. Enjoy:)

I hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving and are blessed beyond measure!

Love,
Dawn

drug all the Christmas decorations out for me and we worked and worked on that all day yesterday. After church today we headed to Lowe's Home Improvement for another project he is building. That man loves to make stuff. I will have to take some pictures and show of some of his work. He really is talented even if I do say so myself. Anyway, we most of the inside done. Although I am looking two small pencil trees to put in the bedrooms. If I find them ok, if not, that's ok too, lol.

Yeah, we have been busy and will be busy right on up until the New Year. Not only do we have all the extra events and parties to go to and host. Both of us work at the local grocery store and it tends to get a little busy around this time of year. But I love it, I left the store for a few years and went into banking. I like that too, but there was something about bonding with your customers that was missing. So, I had the opportunity to go back and I took it. There's nothing like home, even if its a grocery store.

I guess that's why I love Thanksgiving so much. With both my parents and my husband's parents gone now, it really makes the Holiday season more special. Spending time with your family and friends, make time for them; not just the gift exchanging that you do at Christmas. It's the fellowship at Thanksgiving I love. Cooking and preparing all those dishes out of love. Making special and certain dishes that you know your child or friend would love to have and can only get to eat around this time of year. Making memories, talking about old times, picture taking with everybody around the table or in my case tables. Its just a wonderful time.

And of course you remember the ones that are no longer with you. We have had a lot of loss in our community lately. Seems more tender around the Holidays. The Pastor was speaking this morning at service that the depression and suicide rate goes up this time of year. Its really heartbreaking to me that there are people out there with no hope. I have lost family members like that, really close family members that are struggling. We have to keep praying ya'll. That's the only thing that is going to help them. PRAYER!!

So let's be Thankful for all the things we have, not just material; but all things! I have a sign a by back door that says there is always something to be thankful for. This Thanksgiving and Christmas season let's be THANKFUL for all the things we have, hey; and maybe some of the things we don't have anymore. Tell somebody how thankful you are, encourage someone.

I hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving and are blessed beyond measure!

Love,
Dawn

Chit Chat

Hi Everyone!

It's time for Saturday's post! Hope everyone is doing well today. I have been busy this Saturday. I've spent all day home but I have worked all day.

You know the usual cleaning, laundry, making the beds; taking your husband his lunch because he forgot it; those types of things. I don't mind. It could be worse.

Some of the things I was doing today were, posting on a makeup look I did a YouTube video for. I'm still trying to get the hang of that. It’s only my second video. I wish you would head over and check it out. Any feedback and help would greatly be appreciated. Like I said I'm new at this whole thing.

Since starting my business with LimeLife by Alcone I have really tried to do new things. Use to I would hardly ever post on Social Media. I am a very private person. That's the way I grew up, you didn't tell people your problems or your achievements. That's just the way it was. I really felt alone a  of the time. That’s not a good feeling at all. I really have a heart for women; I think I've said that before on here or somewhere, anyway...I know what it is like to think you are not doing enough because for some reason we are to do it ALL. That is a lie straight from the Liar himself!!

I really want to encourage women that they are enough. Whatever talents or special gifts you have, they are enough and we are to use them. It could be something as just being a good listener. Sometimes we don't really want advise, we just need someone to listen. You don't have to play an instrument, sing or dance to be used by God. He give each one of us a gift and we are to use it to help His people.

This morning I woke up and jumped right in the Word. I knew I wasn't in a good mind space and I knew if I didn't do something about it soon it was going to get worse. During my devotional time this morning God showed up. I didn't meet one of my goals this week with this new business and it has had me kind of down, but God reminded me this morning that I am His and I am loved. I have so much to be thankful for, so much that He has done for me. I couldn't even begin to tell of all the messes He has gotten me out, much of my own doing.

Girlfriend, He is a good God. He is faithful and you can trust Him with EVERYTHING you have or want to have.

I hope this encouraged you in someway. Please leave me a comment or share this post. I would love to hear from you. I have please a link below of Third Day's song, "I Trust in Jesus". You can do just that.

Blessings,

Dawn

https://youtu.be/Hyzb2oM_UPI

Self Care

Hey, hey hey y'all!

Hope you all are resting and taking care of yourselves this weekend. I have done just that this morning!

We all need a little "me time" to rejuvenate and refresh. Life gets so busy at times and we all have our own problems and needs that have to be met. People and things are depending on us to get those things done. But......I'm going to tell you something that took me a longggg time to understand. You cannot get those things done or take care of those people that need you if you are so run down and tired that you cannot hardly function. You are no good  to them or yourself.

Some may say that it is selfish to spend time on yourself. Well, I say its selfish not to. You are not proving anything trying to be everything to everybody. You will just end up older faster. That's definitely no good, lol. I know there are things that can't be helped. Hospital stays, unexpected death, things of that nature. I'm talking about jobs, family and friends, even volunteer work. We do these things for so long we get in a mind set that no one else can do them as well as we can or that no one wants to help. How can they if we don't turn those "things" over or ask for help? We, and I am speaking as a woman & from  my experience; that we think we have be super mom, super wife, super boss, super human. We can....until we break. We were not designed to be everything. We all have special talents and qualities. They are unique to each and everyone of us, they all have a purpose for someone and something. The quicker people understand that, the happier they will be.

I know someone will disagree with me, and that's OK. I know for what MY experience was that I was not strong enough to handle all that I had put on myself. (Notice I said "I" in that last sentence. That's what happens most of the time. We do this to ourselves)I know Someone Who is though. God. He has helped me in every way and every time I needed Him. Was the answer always what I wanted, No; but it was what I needed, and that's fine. In the end, He knows what is best for us anyway. He knows us better than anyone.

Anyway, I'm going to close now. This was just heavy on my heart this morning. I have a heart for women. Basically because I know how hard it is to be a struggling mama of two and trying to be the best at all things for them. They see you mama, they see how you love them and would do anything for them. Do not think for one minute think it goes unnoticed. Be encouraged today that if you think you are failing you DEFINITELY are not. God's got your back. Pray and ask for help. From Him, your circle of friends and family.

Take care of yourself and have a FaBulouS weekend. #StayintheWord 😊

Blessings,

Dawn

JCP Try On Finds

Good Evening Everyone!

Hope you all have had a wonderful weekend. I certianly have. I spent the day with a great girlfriend of mine yesterday in Raleigh. We had lunch, tried on clothes and just had a good time. Got to catch up and spend some time together. That’s the most important part. Time, seems we just don't have enough of it.

I just got back from visiting my daughter in Wilmington. I didn't get to see my son this time. He is in Charlotte to see a football game. I hope he had enough clothes, because it has turned cold here in NC.

Today I am going to share with you a recent visit I paid to the local JCP. They had and still having a wonderful sale. Although I think it ends today. So I had to try on the a.n.a. collection they have. I love this collection because it trendy and modern for the 40+ women.

This first item I have on is a.n.a. Perfect Skinny Jean, mid rise.I love the camo print. They fit good and are flexible, not stiff at all. Usually I have a problem finding jeans that fit in JCP, but these are a good fit off the rack. Normally I to order the smaller sizes online.

I paired the camo jeans with a turtle neck sweater from a.n.a. The price point was fairly reasonable, $39.

Next is a V Neck a.n.a. Sweater in Tournament Gold. This is a vibrant color and can carry into the Christmas holidays. This sweater was a size XS and price $44.
The jeans are also a.n.a mid rise straight leg jean. The distressed look is always in. The cuffed leg is cute. These are also a size 2, price is $49.

This Henley was my favorite. So soft! a.n.a Henley in XS Colonial Rose. Price $37. This piece felt very good on the skin. Love this!!

This Anorak Jacket is in Green Stone. It is fitted at the waist. You can wear this with just about anything. Size small and price $69.

There was a lot of size variety in all these pieces I tried on. The prices were wallet friendly, too. That’s what I look for when I shop. I try to find pieces that will go well with things I already have in my closet. Plus, that can be used for multiple purpose; casual, business or date night.

I hope you enjoyed the try on with me.

Have a great week!!

Blessings,
Dawn

He is Enough

Good Sunday Morning Ya'll!

I wanted to hop on here really fast this morning before I head out to church.

In my quiet time this morning I came across a scripture verse that just hit me like a ton of bricks. In this verse the psalmist was talking about the longing or wanting we have deep within us. Its almost like something we keep looking for to satisfy us but we usually come up empty. Somethings fill us;, ie, make us happy just for a little while. And that something could be anything. The next new relationship, drink, drug, shopping trip, just one more trip to the gambling house; you get the picture. What I'm trying to say is this, NOTHING can fill our longing like Jesus can. He is enough. ENOUGH. We were made by Him and for Him. We love because He loved us first and continues to do so, even in all our sin.

I just wanted to share that with you this morning. I pray that it encourages someone today. Whatever you are chasing girl/guy friend, its not going to satisfy you like Jesus. He does things in your life that only HE can do if, IF you let Him.


Have a Blessed Sunday Ya'll!!


XOXO
Dawn

Friday Nights and the Grands

Good Saturday morning!!

I hope everyone had a blessed week. I, myself seemed to be on the struggle bus all week. That tends to be the new normal with me lately. But, I will take it; new changes and all. It will all work out in the end.

I didn't get a chance to exercise that much this week. I only got two days in. Hey, that's better than sitting on the couch, right? I thought when our children were grown and gone life would slow down a little bit. I was totally wrong, lol.

We got a chance to keep three of our six grandchildren this weekend. Their parents are taking a mini vacation to the NC mountains. I'm sure they are enjoying the peak season of color there with the leaves turning. All those beautiful and vibrant oranges, reds, yellows and purple. It's definitely something to see.

Last night my husband had the honor of escorting our oldest grand daughter to Homecoming Court at her high school. All the girls were beautiful, but you know I'm biased and Riley was the MOST BEAUTIFUL. I am sure all the parents and grandparents thought the same of their girls. too. Riley actually won for her class. Freshman Princess of 2019 Court. She said she was so surprised that she didn't hear her name at first.(There is below below of her and proud Pa).

It was so much fun to be there with all the activity. The Friday Night Lights, football, blankets, little kids running and playing, and of course, you have to have hot chocolate! My heart was full. I forgot how much I missed these kinda things with my own children. They kept this mama busy, that's a fact. But, I would do it all again.

Enjoy your little ones. They don't stay little long. Cherish them, take ALL the pictures, even if they roll their eyes at you. They will appreciate one day.

Here's to another beautiful weekend!

Blessings,

Dawn

Comfort Foods

Happy Sunday Everyone!!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I certainly did. Spent the whole weekend with my husband and went to church this morning with a great friend of mine. The only thing that would make it better was to see all the kids and grandkids!

As the days get shorter and cooler I love to use my crock pot. Its simple, I don't have to babysit it, and its usually the entire meal in one pot. That equals less clean up and I am all about that!!  I want to share with you all today a recipe I found on Pinterest. Chicken Pot Pie, yum yum! Of course I tweaked mine a little. Which that is what a recipe is, just a formula, something to go by and you add your own special touch to it.

The recipe has your basic vegetables and of course chicken and you can place biscuits on top if you like that. I chose to serve ours on the side. I personally don't like a lot bread. Like I said, you can do  it any way you want.

Basic formula is as follows....

1-2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast (I used tenders)
1 can of cream of chicken
1 10-12 oz bag of frozen peas and carrots (I bought them mixed together)
1 15 oz can of whole kernel corn or 10 oz bag frozen
1 cup of chicken stock
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp garlic
1 tsp parsley flakes

In the bowl of the crock pot mix together the cream of chicken, spices and stock. Mixture will be thick. Season chicken with a little salt and pepper and place them in the mixture. Cook for 4-6 hours on high. Remove chicken into another container. Shred with a fork, place back into crock pot stirring in veggies and cook for another 30-45 minutes.

Serve in bowls with a biscuit on top.

Great comfort food for these cool nights without all the work.

I hope you enjoy. If you try it leave me a comment and let me know how it turned out.

Have a blessed week!

Dawn

Exciting News

Happy Tuesday Everyone!!

It is kinda cool and cloudy this morning but I'm not gonna let that stop me from bringing my shine today!!

I have some exciting news today! Something I have been praying over, tossing back and forth, feeling like I couldn't bring anything of value to what I wanted to do. You know the same ole routine. But I'm taking a leap of faith and ........you are looking at the new Beauty Guide in-Training for LimeLife by Alcone!!!

When I say that I have been struggling with this for months is really an understatement. My poor husband is so excited that I feeling made a decision, LOL!! But really though, I was over thinking the opportunity too much, something I tend to do. Until one day this past week, I said; you know I am worth this, I do have something of value and I want other women to know that they are worth everything they dream of too. We still have dreams just like we did when we were little girls. This opportunity with LimeLife by Alcone will give me just that. Just in the past two days there has been a wealth of information and materials to encourage and strengthen other women. Its really touching that someone, people you don't even know are cheering you on.

I hope you come along with me on this journey. Its not just about selling makeup and skin care to me, its more of becoming the you that you want to be. Embracing our age and still containing our energy and staying healthy; mind, body and spirit. Plus finding that part of us that makes us unique and loving that part of yourself the most. We are all BEAUTIFUL and all have WORTH.

You can reach me on
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/dawn.s.weeks
Instagram: ruby_dawn_
LimeLife by Alcone: www.limelifeabyalcone/dawnweeks

and of course here on my blog.

Thanks so much for your support!!

Blessings,

Dawn

October

Good Saturday Morning!

It's finally cool here in Eastern NC!! Can I just tell you how excited I am about it?! It has been so hot here. It was almost 98 degrees yesterday, that's just crazy town!!

I want to hop on here really fast this morning and share what I learned this morning while doing my yoga. I use YouTube videos as a guide to get me started, plus they are free; and this video was on healing. She spoke many times on the mind healing the body. That is so true. I firmly believe that the mind can make you sick. 

Warning!

(Just gonna get a little real here) I went through a time where my thoughts were making me sick. Sometimes, many times, what we believe effects our minds. So if you believe you are sick you will eventually be sick. I believed at one time that my back was hurting and the cause of it was cancer. Simply because these were the things that happened to my mother. After being around her and her sickness I took it on myself after she passed away. 

This is why its so important to be aware of your thoughts. Any negativity that is around you, whether it is family, work, friends; whatever, it effects everything you do. Try to remove this mess (that's what it is) because negativity will mess you up. Some cannot help their situations in the moments they are in, but you can control your thoughts. There is help. Find a support group, a church, start exercising, read, journal. I did just about all these things. Does it get better over night?? For me, NO! but I stayed with it. It does, it will.

What I really want to say is your body is an amazing machine. So is your mind. Take care of both and they will take care of you. You are truly enough, your body is enough. We all have our junk and ugly we have to work through and its OK not to have it all together. Nobody really does. Some are just better at hiding it. But there is always room to be better and do better. I learned the most valuable lesson in Celebrate Recovery and I use still today. The definition of Insanity: doing the same thing expecting a different result. It's not going to happen. You have to change your people, places and things to expect different. This goes in all areas of you life.

I hope you enjoy your Saturday! 

XOXO,

Dawn

                                                                                    

  

Monday, Monday

Hey y’all!!

I hope you all had a great Monday. I was on the struggle bus this morning. I just could not get out of the house with everything i needed. I left my phone, then I had to come back inside to get my lunch. Yeah, it was a Monday for sure.

Anywhoooo....I just wanted to drop in this evening and talk about exercise just for a minute. Its sometimes still not my favorite thing. I have always been active. I mean I love to dance and things, but I was never an athlete. I worked out when the kids were little. I didn't get serious about my health until after my mom passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2007. Most of my family has died with some form or other of cancer.

I started working out at a local gym near our home and I would go three or four times a week. It was good, but not really me. I was always comparing myself with the other women and most of them I already new, gees I went to church with these ladies. I just never felt comfortable. But I was going to let that stop me. So I turned my daughters old room into a "workout room". Oh, I still have her bed and dresser in there in case she comes home for a visit. (Below are a couple of pictures of some the equipment I use)

I'm saying all this to say, I was 43 years old when I got serious about my health. It wasn't just about losing weight. I was at a good weight for me and my height. Its more about being a better me. Taking care of me. Watching what I put into my body and how strong I can be; mentally, physically and spiritually. Yes, spiritually. You can connect to who you really are while working out. I look forward to working and spending time with me. It helps me focus, renew not only my body but my mind as well. And it also helps me take out my frustrations, lol. We all have those on Mondays.

It doesn't take a huge space and top of the line equipment. Just a determination to do better and be better. Your family will thank you for it and so will your body. You only get one body and we are in charge of what we do with it. No one can make us. Its up to us. Just little changes like in our diets, no bread or sugar. Change it up a bit, you don't have to do it all at once. There are all kinds of FREE exercise videos you can get on YouTube and play them anywhere.  And hey, if we fall don't stop. Get back up and go again!

I hope this helps someone. I will always thank the two ladies I seen in a local grocery store 3 years when I finally made up my mind to start taking care of ME.

Have a great week everybody! Thanks for stopping by:)

                                                   Just a couple of yoga mats, free weights
                                                   kettle bell and of course shoes
                                                   





Exercise  (stability ball), step, resistant bands
and the treadmill. I tie the band around the treadmill
for more leverage in some exercises.
                 

Seasons

HAPPY FALL Y'ALL!!!

Can you tell I'm from the South???

Fall is one of my favorite seasons. Which to be honest, I love all the seasons. Even if some of them are short lived in eastern NC. Seasons are just like a new day. It's a chance to try again, to do better, be better. To change.

I'm still working on change. I am a creature of habit. Although I should be used to it by now. Nothing stays the same. But, that's alright. How boring would staying the same be??? Same ole, same ole. New seasons are a chance to dream again. Make goals and achieve those goals. I have a few on my list. 

Seasons are also a chance to reflect on the last season you just came out of or maybe you still are going through. I have had some seasons where they lasted longer than 3 months. What I love most  about a new season is the excitement of the unknown. What is going to change this time. We go to the Blue Ridge mountains every year during the fall. I am originally from there and have family I love to go see. While we are there my husband and I love to "go up on the mountain" and see the fall leaves. All the beautiful colors. Oranges, reds, pinks, even some purple; its spectacular. I have been doing this every fall season of my 40+ years and I never have seen the same colors in the same places. Some years the colors are really vibrant and some years the colors do not last as long. Yet all the leaves still change. 

You may be or not be excited about the season we are in but girlfriend, it will CHANGE. We have to change to bring new life to us, to wake us up and prepare us for the next season. Just like those trees in the mountains that change colors and eventually loose their leaves. In the spring they start to bud and blossom again into something just as beautiful than the season before.

Every season has some kind of beautiful, whether its the beginning, the middle or the end. Look for your beautiful during this season.

Thanks for stopping by.

Dawn

Date Your Mate

Hi everyone!

I hope you all had a good day. It was a “different” day at work , but nothing I cannot handle.

I popped on here for a quick second to say, “Date your Mate”. Terry and I went to Goldsboro after work today to check on a few things (work related) and we turned it into a date night. A quiet dinner. Simple conversation, not rushed.

I am saying this from experience; it is easy to fall in to the same ole same ole. Sometimes that’s a good thing and sometimes not. Make time for your partner. Write a note. Send a text. Things like that aren’t just for the young people. They mean a lot.  Of course, I pray that Terry knows how much he means to me. He still likes to hear and be shown. I do, too!

Anyhoo, date your mate. Your relationship will be stronger for it. It’s worth putting that effort into it, that’s the whole reason you choose each other, right? Because you love each other.

Have a great week. Talk to you soon!

Blessings,
Dawn

Vacation

Happy Sunday!!!

I just got back with the family from a mini vacation in the NC mountains. They are so beautiful  and the weather was fabulous! Cool, around 55 degrees in the evenings and in the low 80s during the day. Just fabulous! We couldn’t have requested better weather.

This is the first vacation we have taken in a number of years. For different reasons; you know life get busy, I recently changed jobs. Terry’s health scare. Just things. But we got the chance to go and I’m so very glad we did.

My son and daughter went with us and Lord, we laughed, played games, ate ice cream, shopped, laughed some more. Went down a couple of dirt roads. And wherever we went it took an hour to get there, but we really had fun and it’s was so relaxing. We didn’t worry about bills, doctor reports and tests or our workplaces, we spent our focus on each other and reconnecting. There were some evenings we just set on the back porch in silence and read. Both my children got that love from me. We love to read a good sturdy book.

I have some pictures that reminded me of God’s faithfulness. A week before the area where went to spend our time was hit by a bad thunderstorm. Rocks falling, lighting, trees and debris everywhere, they said. You see, we didn’t see any of that. Everything was clean when we got there. You see the place didn’t look like a storm hit it. It was peaceful. Sometime life is like that. We go through so many different storms, a lot people don’t know about. But afterward, just as sure as God makes the winds cease and the sun rise and set, He will give us a way to clean up and work through our storms.

God is faithful my friend. He is working when you don’t see Him. You and I have no idea what is going on in the Heavenlies. But we can trust Him to look after us, that’s a fact.

I hope you have a great week and this was some encouragement to you. These pictures sure were to me.

Thanks for stopping by!  

“He made the storm be still,
And the waves of the sea were hushed.”-Psalms 107:29 ESV

He Is Faithful

Happy Saturday Everyone!!

I hope you all are doing well today. I'm just hanging around the house today, doing a few chores. You know the usual; laundry, floor, that type of thing.

I had a few minutes today to share what God has done recently with our little family. I spoke in my last blog about a few health problems that my husband was having. We went to the doctor Monday and got wonderful news. Its not what we originally thought it was (I will share later what the problem was)! Praise the Lord!! He is so faithful.

My husband has been going back and forth to the doctor having many tests done every few months for the past two years. To say the least it has been emotionally, physically and mentally draining. We have taken it one day at a time, literally. Sometimes we what to just throw in the towel and sometimes we want to yell and scream, "God!! Why is this happening!!" And we did. I believe this journey, though its not over, has made my husband and I spiritually stronger, both individually and together. We are faithful to each other and God has been faithful to us. Even when we don't understand why or what is going on. I have always been one of those people that needs to know it all. The next move, the next turn and then the next after that. God doesn't work like that. And you know what that's OK with me. I have learned these past two years that I don't need to know everything because I know the One that DOES know everything. I can trust in that, my husband can trust in that and so can you!

The picture above is one my daughter took when she was visiting one day. It was actually the day we were suppose to get the tests results and didn't (that's for another time). She said, "Ma, look at this pretty picture I just took." We had just gotten back from Raleigh, we were all tired and still didn't have any answers. We were told we had to wait another week and a half to get them. I got to looking at this pretty picture and remember that God has got this. The rays of sunshine coming through the trees and landing on the side of our little home is like a promise from God that there is still hope, it's not over.

I might be over sharing, but I believe that we all are going through things, big things and we need to remember that we are not in this world alone. God has got us. He knows EXACTLY what we are going through and what we are feeling. He is faithful even when we are not. That's grace and He is enough.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Blessing and Love!

Dawn

Me and my man

Stand Firm

Good Sunday evening friends!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. They fly by don't they?! Monday is right around the corner.

Today in church I was reminded to stand firm. This phrase keeps popping up in my life this season. We all have battles we fight. Some are harder than others. Right now my husband and I are going through a pretty hard season. Not with our relationship but just some other things that I will not get into now. My husband is a pretty private person and his wife, me; just tends to spill everything, haha.

Anyway, we are trusting and believing God to do a mighty work during this season. He is more than able to do so. Its the process that kind of gets us down. We are a hurry up and fix it now people. We want answers and things fixed on our time and that's not God's time.

The pastor made four points

• Pray
• God is on our side
• Stay committed
• Work together     

It will be worth it in the end. So what ever you are going through; I am right there with you girlfriend, Stand firm!

I pray this spoke to someone because it sure do me.

Ya'll have a blessed week!

Dawn

Good evening!

I hope everyone had a great day! My day started very early, 3 am early. I know, right? But that's part of my job and that's ok with me.

Just jumping on to reintroduce my blog, "It's a New Day".  I started a few years ago and it just dropped off. I lost interest I guess. Honestly, I still do not know at all what I am doing, lol. But I will do like I always do, be me.

I think that's what I want to do with this platform. In this world we live in today it's always rush, rush. Hurry up, go to the next appointment, meeting, child's(ren) game or performance. Sometimes during all that we may lose ourselves, especially women. I know, been there done that. Although my children are grown and gone now, I still see women; myself included, trying to keep up with what society says we should be, look like and act like. Which is totally a lie!

It has taken me 46 years to finally be comfortable in my own skin. I hope and pray that this blog will bring joy and laughter about everyday life. That being a mom during the at home years and the empty nest years, it's a tough job in all the different years. Plus, it looks different on different women. But mostly it's completely OK to be different, God made us different and unique.

I hope this blog becomes a place of encouragement, support and love. Please don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends.

Have a great week!

Blessings,
Dawn