{Be Inspired} Blogger and Business Woman Heather Sanders from The ReStyle Group

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I’m so excited to be wrapping up my 5 week series {Be Inspired} with HEATHER! One of the best things about having a blog is all the people you meet. I never knew how many talented,gracious, SWEET, and lovely women I would get to spend my time with ! Heather and I “met” online, through Facebook. One sweet message lead to a face to face meeting at Creative Estates and now I call her friend. Heather has taken her passion, talent and gift for design and made it into a business, The Restyle Group. Heather, The Restylist, focuses on giving you the best bang for you buck by reusing, revamping and repurposing what you have and also giving you budget friendly design options to give your space an updated look for less! Here’s Heather…..

Which came first, the business or the blog?  The business. Totally the business.

What was the first blog you ever read and how do blogs influence or inspire your line of work? I remember stumbling upon the Lettered Cottage quite awhile back and finding it utterly scrumptious.

Speaking of scrumptious…..BarnChic?…OH YES there’s MORE!!!!

Give us an example of how submitting your talents to God has made your life "richer"   I have been greatly blessed through the ministry work I do (working Women at Cornerstone Chandler). In fact I truly believe that so many of the opportunities and doors that have opened for me have been directly related to that. It was a stretch and scary for me to step into that role but overcoming and persevering through that has given me much of the confidence to take risks in business. I think when we step into roles (many times out of our comfort zones) where we are using our gifts for things that are bigger than ourselves God will enrich your life greatly.

Read all about THIS Restyle here! Dreamy!!

 Being authentic when your blogging is important. But tell us what being an authentic business woman has taught you? Being authentic in business and in general is huge for me. I have in the past expended energies to not let others see me sweat or think that I did not have everything under control. As I get older I realize not only is perfection utterly impossible but when you don’t show yourself (flaws and all) to others, you are doing a huge disservice to other women. When we are inauthentic or pretending, we don’t allow others to truly know us or to have space to be authentic themselves. Being humble, transparent and admitting that you are human and make mistakes allows other women to breath.

 

What has been one of your favorite ReStyles? What magic touches did you add to make it special? Oh my, I love so many of them. One in particular that comes to mind is a quick 3 hour redesign. I was feeling like I had not accomplished enough; that it was not fabulous enough. I was humbled when the homeowner came home and cried. She was delighted with the small changes and it really made me realize how powerful changing your environment is. We are deeply connected with our spaces. I also just adore paint and introducing bold color.

BOLD COLOR like this Crocodile Tears color the Savvy Socialist, Jami Lindberg picked for her space…www.thesavvysocialista.com

 I love what you said in your interview with Diane Meehl and The Ahwatukee Foothills Magazine "Think about what you would do for free - the things you love to do that don't feel like work, and pursue them. Do what you were meant to do, and your life will be full." Is this something that you have always lived by or learned on the way? I have not always had the opportunity or guts to do what I love. This is newer phase of life for me and I feel very fortunate. This business opportunity came at a time when we were at the bottom looking up and the only questions left was “why not”. So, let me qualify that statement. You don’t have to be paid or have a business in order to be full. That statement is really about finding your purpose, your unique gifts and talents and the courage to do something with it. That could be serving / ministry, mothering, a creative outlet, a career or a business. There are also seasons of life where we are called to do things we may not love or that may not feel fulfilling; do them anyway. We don’t always get to live out our passion in the time frame or the way we want. Remember what you were created for, what is unique to you and serve others. The right path and doors will open for you when the time is right. Be patient and many times what God has in store for you will be far greater than you can imagine.

Take a look at this ReStyle she did for a local Gilbert resident and fitness instructor, Melissa Richards.

You spot a 1975 retro lamp with a drum shade, 6 ornate antique frames and a 16 cubby IKEA shelf at a garage sale. Which ones are you taking home and whatcha gonna do with them! Taking home the ornate antique frames. Today I would paint them white, however my tastes for color frequently change so they will repainted many times over.

Who's you favorite Christian artist? My kids will tell you every single one as I continue to turn up the dial with each song stating “this is my favorite song”. I love the powerful lyrics of Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns and Mercy Me. I never ever tire of any of them. Matt Maher is my newest fave.

Name three movies that you can watch over and over and OVER again:0) Dirty Dancing (I still cry when Baby makes the dance leap), The Goonies and Pretty Woman. There is a them there: I like the underdogs who dare to dream big and break out of their box

Thank you so much Heather for sharing with us!!!  It’s so great to have someone like you out in the community spreading the LOVE and spending yourself:0)

 

Guess what! TODAY The Restyle is offering and AMAZING DEAL!!…..

$59 for Two-Hour Home Décor Design Consultation by The ReStyle Group ($118 value)

Head on over to ENAMOR to take advantage of this  perfect gift…it is wedding season!!!

{Be Inspired} Blogger Nicole from the blog Modern Reject!

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Nicole and I met through a dear friend. Remember last year I asked you all to pray for my friends Tracee and Jeramy as they were preparing to bring their son into the world very prematurely? Well I’m happy to say that those prayers were heard and God has brought them and their precious son Gavin out of the darkness of those days:0) He just celebrated his FIRST Birthday, last month. That’s were Nicole and I met…again:0) I had just came back from Creative Estates and we ran into each other again and the subject of blogging came up..not by accident I’m sure;0) We exchanged blog addresses and even though it took me a while to make it to her page, I’m SO glad I did because it has been food..really good comforting FOOD to my soul. She discusses the most taboo topics that everyone is afraid to talk about…like Sunday: the Most Segregated Day of the Week. and Have Sex…Even When You Don’t Feel Like It. Or “unpopular” issues like Why I Don’t Like Talking About the Fact that I’m Black. You know it’s good reading when you can LAUGH out LOUD in one post, scroll down to the next post and reach for your  Kleenex. Nicole, from  Modern Reject is a gifted writer who has submitted her talents for HIS glory! Let’s get to know her a little better…….

 

Blogging..Tell us how you started, about your blog name, and how you found your niche!

I started blogging almost a year ago. My year anniversary is next week actually. Woo Hoo! My husband nudged me. Then God nudged me, so I finaly said "okay, I'll do it."

My blog is called "Modern Reject" because for one, I consider myself a modern girl. I love design, decor, all things retro and beautiful. But I am also a reject. Just like Christ was rejected as the cornerstone, so I will be rejected for my faith. I also reject the average life and instead I want the abundant life God promises.

My niche sorta found me. I just started writing about the things I care about, struggle with, and am working through. Some say I'm controversial, but I really just love discussing the things that are often left unsaid.

 

 I feel like your taking some of the thoughts right out of my own head and putting them down in writing.  I LOVE your series "Dying Daily" Tell us a little more about what moved you to write this series.

Well, I knew that I wanted to share my own personal walk of faith. I am always a little hesitant when it comes to getting personal, but I know that in sharing my own struggles and triumphs, others are given courage to do the same.

 
There is no doubt you are authentic when you write, raw and real too. How has this journaled blogging experience helped your spiritual maturity? Good and Bad.

Great question. First off, writing down my thoughts has helped me discover what I actually think about certain topics. Often times, it is not until I write it all down that I realize my own personal belief.

I would say too, that I am more aware of what God is doing around me. It's as if I have grown longer spiritual antenna. I "pick up" more information. I sense God more. I see His hand more. This is partly because I am always looking for my next topic. I see topics in everyday life now, which means I am seeing God more, if that makes sense.
The bad is the flip-side of this. I can tend to see everything through the lens of a blog, instead of as Nicole or as a servant of Christ. I have to work to maintain that balance.

HE Said/She Said Wednesdays is another great series were you talk about the differences between men and women. What's the one thing that has kept you and your hubby happily married?

Two words: Date. Night. My husband and I have date night every Friday, no matter what. (yes, we are totally lucky and blessed to have so many date nights) Is this the key to our happiness? Well, it is certainly a factor. It simply means that we prioritize time as husband and wife, as friends, as lovers even. We aren't only "mom" and "dad."

 
I read the post when "Jesus found you"  the summer before your senior year. Your so open about your TESTIMONY. What advice do you have to those who struggle with sharing there sometimes shameful past with others?

I would just encourage and remind anyone struggling with sharing their testimony that the story isn't really ours, it's God's. When we tell others what He has done, we are essentially telling His story. The focus can't be on us, but rather on Him. He gets all the glory, even for our past mistakes because He is the one who redeemed them.

 
The Christian life is not the promise of the “good life,” or even the “American life.” It is, if we are obedient to Him and Spirit-led, the promise of the “abundant life”.  This was written in your post titled The Easy Way or the Hard Way.  How has this message helped you stay grounded since you gave your life to Jesus at 16?

The older I have become, the less and less concerned with worldly "success" I am. I mean, I still want to succeed, don't get me wrong, but my motivation is so different now. I heard Dr. Tim Kimmel say once that success is not money, power, beauty, or fame. Success is, instead, loving Christ and loving others...and that is the abundant life. That's God's promise.

When I get bummed out because I can't buy the latest mid-century chair I have been eyeing or some gorgeous rug from West Elm, I try to remind myself that I am in pursuit of the abundant life. Yes, I can still have nice things, but I want to honor Christ first, not myself.

 
Your a wife, and a mother of soon to be THREE :0) Tell us how you and your husband plan to lead your children in a world where they WILL be a Modern Reject?

Wow. That is a big question. Most days I'm just trying to keep my kids alive. It is hard to think long term when you have a 4 year old, 2 year old and a bun in the oven.

I will say though that my husband and I want to model Christ each and every day, which is hard to do. We want our kids faith to be authentic and to be their own. We also want to build a house of grace, honesty, and love--where our kids could freely come to us without fear of judgment or legalism.

Big goals for sure. Today, I'm focusing on feeding them 3 meals, teaching them the alphabet, and breaking up any sibling rivalry...oh and stealing a nap for myself when I can.

 
Your hair is SO cute!! I imagine you've had plenty of hairstyles. So what's your favorite?

Hey thanks! I have had lots of hairstyles...too many in fact. I think my fave is the same as my hubster's which is just past my ears, short chopped bob, dark dark brown...a little edgy.

 
If you were invited to My Favorite Things Party (the party where you bring your FAVORITE thing or product to share with everyone) what would you gift and WHY!?!

Ooh, I love this question. I would gift a Robert's Revival Radio. They sell them at Anthroplogie in the U.S. They represent me well. They are retro looking, almost old-fashioned, but are also updated modern versions of digital radios. They can even play your iPod. They come in a rainbow of colors. I have a red one and it is one of my favorite things in my house.

Thanks Destiny for the great questions. This was fun. Thanks so much for inviting me to be part of your blog for a day.

Blessings to you!

Nicole

Thank YOU Nicole! As you can see Nicole is a girl with a purpose! Confident in her Savior and in her walk, still learning, still being humbled! So much to Be Inspired by:0)

You can visit Nicole on her blog ModernReject.com

{Be Inspired} Mommy, Wifey, Blogger and friend Andrea Worley from WorleyHouseBlog

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Andrea and her hubby are known as our “E-Harmony” friends, rightly so because we met ONLINE! Andrea found me through a feature of Alivya’s nursery on Just a Girl blog. After leaving the sweetest comments I instantly fell in love with her and her family blog! Once I found out that she actually lived close to me, I immediately invited her family over and the rest in history! We’ve spent Thanksgiving together, birthday parties galore and even church…and I only met her a year ago! So yes, blog friends can become real life friends and really, how cool is that! Andrea has a family blog that talks about just about EVERYTHING! She opens her heart and lets you know about  her favorite stores, recipes, desserts,ministry, married life and even celebrities:0) {Be Inspired} Meet Andrea Worley…. 

So tell us how you started blogging?
I've always kept a journal, I have a journal for each year of my life since I was in 5th grade! No joke, come over we'll have coffee sometime and read them they are so fun to read now. I've always loved writing and using it as a way to keep track of life's events. But, it wasn't until I started reading my college friend's blog (http://thestarcrossedblogger.blogspot.com) was I inspired to start blogging. If you don't read her blog, you really should start today. Mrs. B has a way with words, she's always encouraging, so witty and truly a wonderful woman of God she inspired me to start a blog. I thought it was such a great way to share our lives with family and friends too since we didn't live in the same state as most of our family. Worley House was born in February 2008!
 
How many blog names have you had?
I have had two! When I first started my blog I had a Blackberry (my Husband called it a Crackberry) and I used to write little notes and things I wanted to remember or inspiring quotes or things people said. I named my blog "Notes from my Blackberry" then I got rid of my blackberry a few months after starting the blog and decided I needed to rename the blog something that was more universal to what I was writing about. I wanted the blog to be about our lives and whatever was going on at the time. Worley House was a natural fit!
 
You have so many God given talents how do you manage to "apply" them all to your life!
Well, thank you. You're too sweet! Sometimes I feel like a hot mess because I have all these ideas, passions and dreams and I'm not sure where to put them or how they are all going to come true. I love a lot of things, I am passionate about a lot. I think I have to take into consideration the timing and season of life I am in and apply those talents to what is priority in my life at the time. An example of this was when we first moved to Arizona I was pregnant in a new city and I took a year long break from my photography business to concentrate on being a wife, new Mom and dedicate time to the new season of life we were in. My passion didn't stop, I will always be taking pictures but it wasn't the time to be going hard after re building my business. I do what I love to do, but also realize I can't do everything all the time and I'm ok with that.
 
What does being an AUTHENTIC blogger mean to you?
Oh I love this question! For me it's being true to my Creator (Jesus) first and confident in who he's made me to be. Secondly, I have to keep in mind that this blog was started after my own passion to keep in touch with my family and friends and share life with them. And last, my hope, desire and prayer is to bless the readers of Worley House in some small way. I hope they walk away after reading feeling encouraged, happy, excited about life, and somehow feel God's love. I read an article on a blog where the writer talked about being a success vs. being a blessing. For me I always want this blog to be a blessing to someone. It can get so consuming comparing your blog to other blogs and wanting to have as many followers as them, or want to have the latest and greatest project, or wish that you could write like other bloggers. But the reality is that I can only be myself, there's only 1 Andrea Worley. And my choice is to no matter what, not worry about the "success" that may or may not come with my blog but focus on the blessing that it is and can be to others who read it. That for me is authentic enough.  

Tell us about your Etsy shop Ava's Closet and your photography business Andrea Worley Photography....
I've been taking pictures for as long as I can remember, my passion really grew when I was the editor of my high school yearbook. I didn't really start to pursue it till after I got married. Orion (my husband) really encouraged me to learn as much as I could and grow in my craft. He gave me the push to start my own business and go for it! My desire has always been to give people affordable photography and capture those moments that will last forever in their homes. My Etsy Shop Ava's Closet was inspired by my daughter Ava (hence the name) when I was pregnant with her I kept seeing all these really cute accessories in stores and I couldn't really afford to buy everything so one day I set out to make just a few things for her and wound up with way more clips and accessories than a girl probably needs. I started giving them away to friends and family for birthdays and holidays as gifts. And decided to open up and Etsy shop with all the surplus that I had on hand. Truth be told I don't really make a lot of money from my Etsy shop but it is just another way that I can bless others in my life and give them something handmade and from my heart.

You do such a great job at posting! I think I see something posted on your blog at least three times a week! Can you offer any advice to mom's that are trying to work and blog and take care of home at the same time?
Okay, I'm about to share with you all my secrets here at Worley House! I've always been an organized person by nature, I keep notes and ideas of blog posts and projects I want to complete in my dayplanner. It helps me keep organized all my ideas I want to put on the blog. But, my number one tip for posting frequently on the blog is to SCHEDULE POSTS! I write a lot of my posts during Ava's 2 hour nap times usually on Friday's because it's my day off. So while she's napping I will write a few posts and schedule them for different days during the week or week's to come. So even though it seems like I'm posting daily or every other day it's because I've written them before hand. It makes it a lot easier on me, this way the blog is still a priority and I can get other stuff done during the week that I need to do. Also, having weekly features like "Blog Roll Monday" and "Free Tip of the Week" help me when I have writers block and don't know what to post I have weekly features like that already in place for people to read. Using these tips is what helps me to not feel overwhelmed by the blog and enjoying blogging even more.

Can you give us an example of how God has used your blog for his glory?
One of the turning points in my life was in 2008 when I was laid off from my job, Orion and I lost our home due to this lay off. We've been through a lot and had a lot of change in the last two years, it's been a long road for me. But, those events became a defining time in my life where I had a choice to let God use that hurt and disappointment for his glory. I see life through a different lens now, my priorities have changed and so has my perspective. It's through this new lens that I live life now, it's changed who I am in Christ and how I write and view my blog. It all goes back to being a blessing. And in the last couple years it's been the posts on the blog where I don't talk about crafting, photography, or any other hobby but the posts where I share what God is doing in my own life, how he's shaping me and teaching me that mean the most to me. It's the comments and emails I get from people telling me that what I wrote on the blog that day really encouraged them and helped them know they weren't alone that mean so much to me. They confirm that I'm writing what needs to be written for that specific time. I love how the Lord has been able to use these experiences for HIM. Sometimes the trials we've been through, help others navigate what they are currently going through. The blog has been apart of encouraging others who have experienced job loss, losing their homes, battling depression and who just need to know God loves them.

 

 

Baby Ava is a superstar on the blog:0) How has the blessing of a baby matured your walk as a Christian?
Having Ava and becoming a Mom has changed my view of how much God loves us. I feel so overwhelmed with love daily for Ava. So lucky that God allowed us to be her parents and take care of her! It makes me realize even more that's how God feels about us. So much more than we could ever understand or imagine. He loves us so much, and becoming a parent has opened my eyes to just how much God loves us. It's overwhelming in such a good way!!
 
What at this moment are you obsessing about?
Pinterest! Have you heard of this?!! It's my current favorite internet obsession. If you're not Pinning you're not winning! LOL!!
 
I'm also currently obsessing over re doing our master bedroom, we've been working on it for a while now and it's really starting to take shape, I'm loving the outcome.
 
I already know the answer to this question but who is your favorite celebrity mom and what good qualities can you take away from her?
My favorite celeb Mom is Reese Witherspoon! Her daughter's name is Ava, mine's name is Ava! We could totally be friends in real life! You don't see a lot about her children or family in the public eye and that's one of the things I think I love most about her she guards and protects her family (from what I can see) so well. And I think has a really good perspective and priority when it comes to keeping her family private. She's been through a lot when she went through her divorce she kept the details private to protect her children and family. I really respect that. In a day in age where a lot out there and you can post anything and everything on the internet it helps me to take away that it's OKAY not to share everything on your blog or in public. Keeping somethings private and special between you and your family is a good thing. Plus she's pretty fashionable and has great hair! I kinda wanna live in her closet! :)
 
 
Tell us three things that make you smile?
I'm going to be totally superficial as I answer this last question, because I've totally shared my heart with you during this interview here's some fun things that make me smile:
1. The television show 'Parenthood', I love this show. It reminds me so much of my own brothers and sister and our family. It makes me smile so much and laugh when I watch it! If you're not watching this go to Hulu and catch up, it's the best ever!
2. The internet; I have a slight addiction. 
3. Waking up every day to sunny Arizona!! We lived in cold Minnesota for so long, so to wake up and see the sun daily makes me smile BIG!!

Thanks so much Andrea for sharing you heart with us! I think everyone will be inspired by the diligence you have showed with not only your life but with you blog!  Now  go give her a visit and a smile!

Andrea would love to give one of you a 15.00 credit to her Etsy store Ava’s Closet, for all A Place for Us

Readers!!!

You are automatically entered when you leave a comment!

For more entries,leave a comment for each!

1.Visit her store and pick out a sweet gift you would like to purchase.

2.Follow Andrea  on Worleyhouseblog for more fun adventures.

 

Andrea has also generously given A Place For Us readers a discount good till the end of the month for 15% off on anything in her Etsy Store Ava’s Closet! Please use code APLACEFORUS15 (case sensitive) ! Have a great Friday everyone

{Be Inspired} Welcome Ilene from Much Love Illy

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I knew Creative Estates would be great for meeting new friends and I did just that!

Meet my next {BE INSPIRED} BLOGGER Ilene the author of Much Love,Illy…

She was apart of the adorable group of girls that I mentioned in my CE post a few weeks ago! I got a chance to talk to her while she was running her booth at the handmade market! I was immediately drawn to her COLORFUL handmade goodies she had on display. Her next door neighbor Oh Sweet Joy, Tamarria and I all had a chance to chit chat and fellowship for a while! I couldn’t wait to get back home and read her BLOG and I immediately fell in love with it! The fact that I got to meet her in person was a PLUS!! Illy, a nickname given to her by her boyfriend, has the most beautiful photos, handmade yumminess and her food posts make you want to eat the screen! Such a sweet girl! Read along as we get to know her a little bit better!

INSPIRING…IMAGINATIVE…and IRRESIBTABLE…ILENE!

 

 

How did you get started in the blogging world?

I got on board in the blog world when my sister and other close friends were moving away from Chicago. Most of them had blogs, and so since I wanted to keep in touch with them, I decided to start a blog too. Close to that time, I started my etsy shop and began to slowly include shop updates in it. That is how Much Love, illy blog is what it is today.
 
Who was your first BLOG crush? I'd totally have to go with Danni of Oh Hello, friend. I had never seen a blog as fascinating as hers before. She has the cutest etsy shop and the most inspiring blog.

 
How would you describe your blog "niche?" If there is a niche of randomness, I belong in that niche! My blog has a mix of lifestyle (I love writing about my family, faith, and friends - and oh, yes my love for food!) as well as a love for fashion and handmade goodies. I'm kinda random like that.

 
How has being a follower of Christ influenced your blog and writing? I think it's definitely influenced my writing 'cause being a follower of Christ is a part of my life. I do my best to portray myself 100% whenever I write. A lot of people have described me as "full of happiness" or a "joyful person" - that I think is already a representation of Christ and what He has done and is doing in my life.

 
You are newly engaged!! Congrats! How has GOD used your past experiences to prepared you for the next stage in your life...being a wife?:0) Wow, such a good question! Ryan and I dated for 3 1/2 years before getting engaged. I think the time we had dating gave us the time that we needed to really get to know each other more. It laid a foundation down in our relationship that I believe will better prepare us for our future marriage and ministry. 
We all know that CREATIVE ESTATES was awesome! Tell us what your favorite part was? Getting to meet people!! I loved finally meeting a lot of the bloggers that I already knew before I arrived. It was incredible to get to know them all at a different level. I also loved meeting new people and new bloggers/handmade business owners - like you!

 
Tell us about your ETSY shop and how you decided to sell your handmade goods? I loved my old job back in Chicago, but during my 3rd year of working there, my creative side was about ready to explode! I needed an outlet - and that outlet eventually translated to my Etsy shop. And I'm so glad I did it! 

The Much Love, illy shop is made up of lots of colorful accessories - from poppy garland headbands, jewelry and other hair accessories. I'm a huge fan of color and accessories so this shop merges my two loves together!

I need these in EVER color-----> 

 
Your outfits are SO fun and stylish and just plain ADORABLE...tell us how you would put together a DATENIGHT outfit with your newww fiancé?!! Aw, thanks, friend!! Since he and I currently long-distance, we don't get to see each other much - so when we go out on a date night, I really love to dress up! I'd go for a cute sun dress and a fun pair of chunky platforms (currently obsessed with that trend!). Ryan also loves it when I play up the eyeshadow so I'll probably either do some funky blue or a dark purple - though it does depend on the colors of the outfit. :)

 look how cute she is---->
What advice do you have to anyone who has had a blog for awhile and isn't seeing the "results" they want?
Well, I think whenever I get discouraged - whether it be my Etsy shop or my blog - I always go back to the question: Why am I doing this? Am I doing this because I love it? If you love what you do, if you blog even though "no one is reading," then keep on going with your work! I think this is always what a person should start with. Do you do it 'cause you LOVE it? If not, forget it.

There is also the practical side of blogging where you need to step back - or maybe ask someone to step back with you - and look at your blog from a readers perspective? Is the layout visually appealing? Is your blog easy to maneuver through? Do you post quality content or do you just post to post? Sometimes it helps to even get another blogger's opinion. Ask someone you trust to critically look at your blog and to give you honest feedback.  They might be able to give you tips or a perspective that you might have missed.

Tell us THREE truths and one LIE about yourself:0)
I always loved this game. Here we go:
1. I lived in Okinawa, Japan for 4 years.
2. I've never had a glass of wine in my life.
3. I've never broken a bone in my body.                                                                                                                                                                                    4. I met Jennifer Hudson while shopping at H&M. 

Oh, I‘m  guessin number THREE is the lie!!!!

Thank you so much Ilene for taking some time out and letting us get to know YOU! You have a wonderful spirit and it shines through your blog!  Go over and show her some LOVE and say HI! She loves to meet new friends!

{Be Inspired} The Believing Woman and Blog Writer Tamarria Denga

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I would like to introduce you to my first {BE INSPIRED} blogger Tamarria , the writer of  a newly launch blog, “The Believing Woman” Tamarria and I went to high school together and reconnected again about four years ago when we were both pregnant with our baby boys and due around the same time! She and her family have been such a blessing to our life! Not only are we neighbors but we continually meet to discuss and talk about the everyday life of living as one of God’s created being…THE WOMAN:0) We talk for HOURS and HOURS some days and nights! lol! She was tugged  to start a blog to minister to other woman  and help lift them up and let them know HOW normal they really are! So take a moment to read about her and her blog!

How did you get started in blogging?
You of course! Lol. In all honesty, Destiny you are an inspiration in so many ways and blogging was one of the ways you inspired me. For me, blogging is an amazing opportunity to share with the world what GOD has put in my heart. It's my prayer, that through blogging, I can give a little hope to a hopeless world. 

Tell us what your blog is about?
The Believing Woman entails the hearts of many women who are striving to do the will of GOD. It contains many stories written by real women covering everything from joy and pain and everything in between. This blog is written to encourage women, to let them know that they are not alone. Mistakes will be made and lessons will be learned. Life is sometimes a walk in the park and sometimes a walk in the desert, but GOD carries us through it all. 

How do you feel about being authentic when you blog and how has it  helped your blog so far?
For me, being authentic means not being perfect. No one can relate to a perfect person because no one is perfect. I know that there are many women out there who have experienced or is experiencing some of what I have or will experience. What's in my heart is as authentic as it get's and that's what I put out there. Everyone wants someone they can relate to or someone who understands how they feel.

 
Tell us a little about the blog post " The woman with the Alabaster Jar" and why you were inspired to write that post?
Wow, this is by far my favorite post yet. To even try and put into words what I was feeling when I wrote this is difficult. The story of the woman and her alabaster jar can be found in Luke 7: 36-50. She was considered a sinful woman who wasn't "worthy" of JESUS' love. Every woman, at some point in her life has been the woman with the alabaster jar. We have all looked for fulfillment in all the wrong places whether it was in some "one" or some "thing", and we have all come up empty. With this post, I wanted to show women that true fulfillment comes from giving your heart to CHRIST. It doesn't matter what you've done or where you've been, CHRIST has an unconditional love for you and HE wants you to lay all of your burdens on HIM. HE wants to fulfill you. There is nothing or no one in this world who will fulfill you like CHRIST. This is the message that I was trying to relay to my readers. 

This story was the first of the "Believing Women of the Bible" series that I am doing. With this series, I hope to bring the women of the bible to life so that women today can see and understand how much they relate to these women.

You went to Creative Estates without having a "crafty" blog, tell us about your experience and how did it still help your blog goals and ministry?

Lol, this is interesting. To be honest, at first, I felt out of place. I kept asking myself  "what am I doing here"? All of these women were so talented and creative and were able to relate to one another based off of their creativity. I think I was the only one with a Christian women blog. Awkward! Of course, with GOD being who HE is, I started meeting several believing women with amazing stories and testimonies!!!  We talked and shared and even cried as we spoke about what GOD has done in our lives! Even now, I am sooo thankful for the Creative Estates experience. It made me realize that what I'm doing is important and that there is a need for it. It was encouraging and inspiring. Women have a voice. A strong voice, and it's time to share it with the world.

 
Any advice for novice bloggers like yourself?
"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." That about covers it :-)

 
Tell us three things that make you laugh, three things that are your guilty pleasure and three things that you can't wait to do one day!

Laugh
*My husband (he has a great sense of humor <3)
*My friends (we can't hang out if you can't make me laugh)
*My children (it's true, they really do say and do the darnest things)

Guilty Pleasure...oooh lala
*Food (and not the healthy kind either)
*Sweet tea (I'm drooling just thinking about it and if I know you, you are too. lol)

*Lifetime Movies (I'm a little embarrassed about this one...)

 
Can't wait to do one day
*Finish decorating my home (I change things all the time so that might never happen)
*Meet CHRIST (it seemed fitting to put that one there...j/k it's true. Relax people, it was a joke!)

*Learn to wait (I have terrible patience. I need to learn to wait)

Thank you so much Destiny for taking the time. You're awesome!

Thank you T for letting us get to know YOU! The Believing Woman is sure to be soul food for many women!!