Becoming a Better me - Day 30

What are you waiting for? Who are you waiting for? Do you know that God has purposed you for greatness? Do you know that you are great despite of anything you may have done? Do you know that your biggest regret will be not doing what it is you have been design to do? Do you believe in you? Do you have faith in yourself? Are you afraid that you will fail?

Here are my answers to the questions asked above. Confirmation. No one. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Sometimes. If most of your answers are yes as mine were, then now is the time for you to trust yourself and MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Right now is the time to give up those excuses you keep making. Right now is the time for you to write the plan or speak it!

July 2019 After Children/Present

June 2014 Before Children

Today is Day 30 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and today is the final day! Yes, you heard right! You have completed the challenge! 30 days of prayer, 30 days of scriptures, 30 days of exercising and 30 days of transparency! My workout today consist of a quick stretch, 30 Push-Ups, 110 Squats using a tube resistance band, 60 Crunches, 25 Trunk Rotations, 25 Standing Bicycle Crunches, 30 second Mountain Climbers, 25 Side Leg Raise Left, 25 Side Leg Raise Right, 25 Bicycle Crunches, 30 second Plank and a 30 second Abdominal Stretch. I'm feeling good and looking better! Exercising is now and will continue to be a part of my routine because every day will bring me closer to reaching the results I yearn to have. I'm already at my goal weight which is 140lbs with the thickness that I like but my aim to get more muscles and some Ab action! My prayer has been done for today and the scripture I will be reading will be Jeremiah Chapter 29 NIV.

Although this challenge has come to end, my prayer is that you continue working on #BecomingaBetteryou because I will continue working on #BecomingaBetterme. Prayer, God's word, working out and being transparent does not have to end today but should continue while on your quest to living purposefully. Let's not waste any more time waiting and hoping things will magically happen but instead let's make it happen with action! #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup because your journey continues and the only motivation needed is FAITH! Spread the word and get others to #jointhemovement by introducing them to the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and check out this song by NF called "Remember This" for more motivation! https://youtu.be/SNhOgS3BHjw

Becoming a Better me - Day 29

Your body is a fortress and temple, treat it as such. Ever wonder why it's hard to get up in the morning? Ever had to endure aching pains from sore muscles? Ever felt like you couldn't get back up after bending down or sitting too long? Ever get tired from doing something that doesn't require a lot of muscle movement or even from less strenuous activities? Ever pulled a muscle from picking up something that didn't even weight much? Ever found yourself having a lack of energy?

If any of the above is something you struggled with, it may 

be time to...(to be continued)

If you not sweating, you not working!

The Abdominal Machine I Used today

The Hyperextension Machine I used for the Side Sit-Ups

Today is Day 29 for the #BecomingaBettermechallenge, so that means we are just 1 day away from completion! I'm so proud of you all for choosing to be conquers of #BecomingaBetteryou! My workout today took place at the gym and of course I was sporting my waist trainer! My workout included 11 minutes of light cardio on the Elliptical at a speed of 6, 90 Leg Press on the Hack Squat machine with 50lbs of added weights, 30 Side Sit Ups R/L wit 10lbs weight using the Back Hyperextension machine, 20 Crunches using the Abdominal machine, 60 Squats using two 10lbs dumbbells, 30 Push-Ups, 1 minute Russian Twists, 2 minute Scissors, 20 Trunk Rotations, 20 Standing Bicycle Crunches, 30 second Mountain Climbers, 20 Bicycle Crunches, 30 second Plank and 30 second Abdominal Stretch. (Please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercise!) My prayer for today has been done and the scripture I read was 1 Corinthians Chapter 6 KJV. My hope is that we all learn to incorporate some form of exercise into our lives, even if it's by doing little things like choosing to take the stairs instead of elevator or walking instead of driving. There are many great benefits when it comes to working out like getting fit, losing weight, gaining energy, etc. The most important benefit of them all however, is that exercising is the only natural supplement that can aid your body both mentally and physically so #jointhemovement and keep working on #BecomingaBetteryou as I work on #BecomingaBetterme #keepgoing #dontgiveup #yougotthis

Becoming a Better me - Day 28

What are your expectations in this life? What do you inspire to gain? Speaking for self my expectations in this life is to live purposefully. I want to show those in my life what true living looks like. I want to be able to do all that God has set out for me to do, nothing less. I want to be able trust mankind openly. I want to be able to bring more disciples to God.

Today is Day 28 for the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout took place at home today. (Please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercises!) My workout today consist of a quick stretch, 20 Push -Ups, 100 squats using resistant tubes, 1 minute of Russian Twist, 20 Sit-Ups, 1 minute of Scissors, 20 Arm Curls using two 10lbs dumbbells, 30 second Flutter Kicks, 30 second Mountain Climbers, 20 Reverse Crunches, 20 Cross Arm Crunches, 20 Bent Leg Twist, 20 Clapping Crunches, 30 second Plank and 30 second Abdominal Stretch. I've also started back drinking the "Flat Tummy Water" and I wear my waist trainer every time I workout. The results that I'm aiming for have not fully arrived as you will see in the video below but my butt is siting up more and I'm starting to gain muscles in my legs, thighs and arms. However, my biggest battle as far as the physical is my stomach, although it's much better than where I was, there is still more muscle toning needed in that area. With patience and continuation I'm certain I will get where I want physically and mentally and I'm certain that you will too!

Happy for Progress!

My prayer today has been completed and the scripture I will be reading is James Chapter 1 NIV.  As you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray we get others to #jointhemovement as we continue to live this life being the best that we can, knowing that we are loved by God just the way we are so #keepgoing #dontgiveup #yougotthis

Becoming a Better me - Day 27

😊😍😞😟😠😢😭

Depression as define by Webster dictionary is "a mood disorder marked especially by sadness, inactivity, difficulty in thinking and concentration, a significant increase or decrease in appetite and time spent sleeping, feelings of dejection and hopelessness and sometimes suicidal tendencies". What many don't know about depression is that it's often hidden, not discussed and masked behind a smile. Depression is common and definitely something no one should be ashamed of. Many times depression is brought on by stress, the need to be perfect, after childbirth, after the death of a love one and sometimes depression has no cause behind it at all.

Today is Day 27 for the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I thank God for where he is taking me in life. My workout today with primary focus on my core included 25 Push-ups, 80 Squats using a resistant tube, 30 second Flutter Kicks, 20 Standing Bicycle Crunches, 40 seconds of Mountain Climbers, 20 Side Leg Raises left side, 20 Side Leg Raises right side, 20 Bicycle Crunches, 20 Clapping Crunches, 30 second Abdominal Stretch and 25 Sit Ups. My prayer has been done for today and the scripture I read was Psalms Chapter 46 NIV.

 As you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray that we all try our best to be the light in this world full of darkness and be true reflections of what God's love looks like. You never know how your positivity and beautiful spirit can help someone so #keepgoing #dontgiveup #yougotthis God bless #jointhemovement!

National Suicide Prevention Helpline: 1-800-273-TALK
Postpartum Depression: 1-800-PPD-MOMS
Depression Hotline Support Group: 1-800-826-3632

Becoming a Better me - Day 26

Real Love

Real Love

"Real love keeps your heart smiling!"

Nothing makes the heart smile the way that real love does. Love real love, is more than just a feeling but the essence of who you are. To say the words "I love you" means that outside of yourself you have decided to remove the lock placed on your heart to allow another person inside. Love real love brings out the best in you.

Today is Day 26 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I feel bless and highly favored! My workout today while wearing my waist trainer consisted of a quick stretch, 25 Push-ups, 70 Squats, 2 minute Russian twist, 1 minute Leg Flutters, 25 Bent Leg Twist, 25 Cross Arm Crunches, 25 Bicycle Crunches, 30 second Plank, 30 second Abdominal Stretch, 25 Trunk Rotations, 35 Reverse Crunches and 25 Standing Bicycle Crunches. (Please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercise!) My prayer today was done and I was also able to enjoy praise and worship at Grace Christian Church. My scripture reading for today will be Job Chapter 20 NIV.

As you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray that we all learn to decipher what real love details and never settle because you deserve the best kind of love in relationships and nothing less. Keep in mind that as long you keep God in the center "real love" will always prosper! #jointhemovement #keepgoing #yougotthis #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 25

Cycles are said to be "a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order". Are there cycles in your family history that you aim to break? Do you find yourself consistently back in the same type of relationships you work hard to avoid? Do you see yourself repeating past behaviors not understanding fully how you ended up back at step 1? Often in life people as a whole fight hard to do the opposite of what those before have done, especially if our experiences of them were not all good. We tell ourselves after we face turmoil, that we will never again do what we got ourselves in trouble doing. When we make mistakes we vow to never repeat those mistakes. When we have worked in a particular field that we didn't necessarily like we vow to never do that kind of job again. When we've dated particular types of individuals who were blankly not good for us, we vow to never put ourselves in those types of relationships again yet in still we end up back in those same similar relationships.

Today is Day 25 and I feel bless and energize! My workout today took place in the comfort of my own home (please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercises). Today's workout included a quick stretch, Trunk Rotations 20 reps, Standing Bicycle Crunches 15 reps, Reverse Crunches 15 reps, Cross Arm Crunches 20 reps, Bent Leg Twist 18 reps, Clapping Crunches 18 reps, 30 sec Plank, 30 sec Abdominal Stretch, 40 Arm Curls using two 10lbs dumbbells and 70 Squats using two 10lbs dumbbells. My prayer for today has been done and the scripture I have read is Matthews Chapter 12 NIV. Today I encourage you all to re-visit wounds on the inside that are still causing you pain and seek healing. Just as the Jonathan Mcreynolds song Cycles says "the devil he learns from your mistakes, even if you don't, that's how he keeps you in cycles." Check it out here! https://youtu.be/qlTw3Uz4_4Y Therefore, let us resolve hidden issues from within and aim to end those cycles as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme #jointhemovement #keepgoing #dontgiveup #yougotthis

Becoming a Better me - Day 24

A guilty heart leads to a guilty conscious which can lead to a guilty spirit. A guilty heart can feel like a stabbing pain that won't go away. It can also feel like you are suffocating and can't breathe to save your life. 

Image by www.wellspringworship.org

Today is Day 24 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout today left me feeling beyond good! My whole body was the target today and LA Fitness was my bestfriend today. (Before doing any exercise please consult with your Doctor!) My workout today accompanied with my waist trainer included 15 minutes on the Elliptical, 40 Abdominal Oblique Crunches, 45 Hack/Squats with added weights of 25lbs on the Body Solid machine, 20 Push-ups, 2 minutes of Russian Twists and 40 Side Sit ups using the Hyperextension machine. I'm also still not eating bread or pasta and will continue to delete them both until the remainder of this challenge. My prayer has been completed for today and my scripture reading for today is Proverbs Chapter 21. If you or anyone you know is filled with guilt about something, I encourage you to cleanse your spirit by repenting first and asking God to help you and show you the way. Believe it or not but God is our only stronghold and just as he has the power to heal the body, he can also change your thoughts as well as your heart for the better. So as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray that we all will learn to sin less and pray more! #jointhemovement #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 23

Victory is within the eyes of the beholder and the one who decides that they will fight until they can't fight anymore. Are you victorious? Do you look at the things in life deemed to defeat you and say "I got this"? Life brings us many obstacles but the way we deal with them says a lot about how strong our faith is. We all know how to praise God when great things are happening but do we praise God doing the bad times as well? You or someone you know may be dealing with a sickness, rather it be mentally or physically. Right now there may be nothing else that can be done, at-least in your eyes. At this very moment you may have decided to throw in the towel and accept what is and not fight it anymore. You're battling with your toughest opponent and all you want is to be victorious...

Today is Day 23 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout was short today. I did 15 minutes of Cycling with my RPM above 95, 60 Squats using two 10lbs dumbbells and 20 Push-ups. (Remember to consult with a Doctor before doing any exercises.) I've also took away bread and pasta to help push things further along and I'm still wearing my waist trainer during each workout. My prayer has been done for today but remember there is no limit for the amount of time you spend with God, the more the better. The scripture I will be reading today is 2 Corinthians Chapter 10 KJV/NIV. I pray that if you are in a battle right now internally or physically that you will continue to pray and fight a little longer. No one knows what the outcome will be but for everything there is a purpose. As you continue to work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme know that God will always be right beside you, helping you to stay lifted. Even when you think God is not near, trust that he always is. So I encouraged you to get others to #jointhemovement and for you to #keepgoing #dontgiveup because #yougotthis

Becoming a Better me - Day 22

The good, the bad and the ugly in being honest is that the heart is always involve. Honesty as described by Wikipedia "refers to a facet of moral character and connotes positive and virtuous attributes such as integrity, truthfulness, straightforwardness, along with the absence of lying, cheating, theft, etc." Being honest is the one thing that many people struggle with. I feel that it is a struggle because no one wants to intentionally hurt someone. It's also a struggle because many of us care a lot about how we are viewed in another person's eyes. Many of us are afraid of the outcomes when it comes to being honest. 

"The worst part about being lied to is knowing you weren't worth the truth."

-Quote by Unknown Source

The irony of it all is that everyone deserves honesty yet it is rarely ever given. Proverbs 12:17 says, an honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies. So why is it so easy to lie, especially when it comes to the people we claim to love? Yes, being honest can hurt in more ways than some but isn't the saying still true that...(to be continued)

Today is Day 22 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I repeated most of yesterday's workout with a few additions. My workout today consisted of a quick stretch, 50 Jumping Jacks, 60 Squats using two 10lbs dumbbells, 30 Push-ups, 3 minute Russian Twists with elevated feet, 1 minute Plank, 1 minute Leg Flutters, 1 minute Scissors, 50 Crunches, 50 Reverse Crunches, 30 Arm Curls and 40 R/L Leg Lifts. My prayer for today has been completed and the scripture I will be reading today is Proverbs Chapter 12 NIV. We have all fallen short when it comes to honesty because even the "white lies" as we call them are lies. Or even if we chose to say nothing at all in relations to situations that would call for us to be honest, we are still choosing to with-hold the truth and that is still lying. As you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme, I pray that we will all developed the strength of honesty because the truth will always set us free from anything holding us bondage such as guilt, shame, hurt and more. #keepgoing #yougotthis #dontgiveup and please continue to spread the word and get others to #jointhemovement God bless!

Becoming a Better me - Day 21

"Kindness" as defined by Pastor Richard Patterson III is "hearing and then doing what pleases others"(Chapter 1 pg. 2 of "This is the Kindness"). With that being said, to be kind is to simply be selfless. In most cases, one must be willing to set aside their own personal gains and be willing to do what is best for another, even if it doesn't necessarily benefit them. For example, if there is someone in your life that is not necessarily the best person to you, in fact they may be plain out mean, "Kindness" is saying that despite of how you are treated by that person, you will choose to be nice anyway. "Kindness isn't about lowering your standards, it's about being thoughtful enough to look outside yourself and create a new standard, perception and position of kindness."(Chapter 2, pg. 7 of "This is the Kindness")

Becoming a Better me - Day 20

Death is inevitable, for we all know that someday we will leave this Earth. However, death is something we are never prepared for. Losing a love one can be devastating as well as heartbreaking. We never want to imagine life without someone dear to us. We never want to imagine leaving those that we love behind. Often times death occurs unexpectedly but even when it is expected, the anguish of death is still the same.

Today I did a quick stretch, 5 minutes on the Stair Master, 10 minutes on the Treadmill, 60 squats using two 10lbs dumbbells, three sets of 15 on the squat/hack Body Solid machine with an added 20lbs, two sets of 15 on the Lat Pulldown machine with the pop pin on 75lbs and I ended with 45 on the Shoulder Press machine with the pop pin on 65lbs. My prayer for today has been done and the scripture I will be reading is Revelation Chapter 22 NIV.

My hope for us all is that we seek and know God for ourselves. I pray that anyone reading this who is not saved will turn their lives over to God and allow God to renew you. God is not looking for us to be perfect before giving our lives to him, God wants us just the way we are. We are all flawed, we all make mistakes, we all sin but if you allow God to be your personal savior, then you will forever have peace in knowing that when your time is up, heaven will be awaiting you. As you continue working on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme lets us continue to spread Gods truth and create more disciples. #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 19

Today is Day 19 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout today included 60 squats with two 10lbs dumbbells, 1 minute leg flutters, 1 minute scissors and 60 crunches followed by a 10 minute workout video I found on YouTube. Check it out! https://youtu.be/I6t0quh8Ick I also wore my waist trainer during the entire workout. Also because we are more than half way done with the challenge, I'm going to take away bread and pasta until the challenge is completed. Getting rid of carbs allows you to see better results sooner because carbs are a key factor to weight gain in the stomach area. Reason why is that bread and pasta contains yeast and as we all know yeast expands, therefore making it harder to break down and exit the body. My prayer for today has been done and my scripture reading for today was Exodus Chapter 6. I want to encourage those of you on this journey with me to #keepgoing #dontgiveup because #yougotthis 

Ever been confronted with your past? Ever been in silent conflict with someone and not know? I...(to be continued)

 #jointhemovement and remember that as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme we must stay encouraged and inspired to follow the will of God at all times. God bless!                                                                                                                        

Becomng a Better me - Day 18

Are you a winner? Have you made up your mind that you are a winner? Do you claim everyday that you are winner? I declare that this will be your winning season! I declare that victory lies within you! I declare that businesses are going to proper! I declare that marriages will be healed and restored! I declared that doors are about to open! I declare that by Gods stripes you are healed! I declare that you are debt free! I declare that you will be an overcomer! I speak nothing but greatness and positivity in our lives because I know that great faith goes a long way. I understand that power lies within the tongue of the beholder therefore, I speak what is good and never what is bad.

Jekalyn Carr "You Will Win" https://youtu.be/SRxWYJuq5Y0 #stayinspired

I can assure, that if you...(to be continued)

God+The Word+Faith+Belief = Winner

Today is Day 18 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I worked out at home. I did a quick stretch, 60 squats with two 10lb dumbbells, 100 crunches, 20 push-ups, 2 minute Russian twists with partially elevated feet, 2 minute leg flutters, 2 minute scissors and 60 leg lifts! (Please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercises!)  My prayer for today has been done and the scripture I will be reading today is John Chapter 1. Be determined to win at anything in life and as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray we all win! #keepgoing #yougotthis #dontgiveup and invite others to #jointhemovement

Becoming a Better me - Day 17

Reaching milestones and living in purpose...as I celebrate another milestone in my life, I awake feeling new, refresh, replenish and a bit nervous. In that same token, I awake with a new attitude in knowing that God has given me another year. Another of life, another year of correcting my wrongs, another year at getting something right that I was unable to get right in my past. Yes, I've communicated some of these same things before in the midst of this challenge but I felt it on my heart to push these topics further. As I look at myself in the mirror and I ask myself yet again...where do you wish to be in life? What is it that you want in life and how can you obtain it? No I don't place any demands on myself. No I don't put any pressure on myself. I simply just ask myself...(to be continued)

Today is Day 17 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I got up at my usual time 5 a.m. and headed to the gym #nodaysoff. I started my workout with a 13 minute warm up on the treadmill at a speed of 5, then I did three sets of 15 on the Leg Prone Curl machine (weights at 60lbs), three sets of 15 on the Hip Abduction machine (weights on 75lbs), 60 squats using two 10lbs dumbbells, 1 minute leg flutters, 1 minute scissors and 1 minute Russian twists with partially elevated feet. My body is looking great with my progress thus far but I still have a way to go before hitting my goal. I didn't wear my waist trainer today because I forgot to but nevertheless my workout was a success! (Before doing any exercises please be sure to consult with your Doctor first!) My prayer for today has been completed and my scripture reading today was Ephesians Chapter 5.

As you all work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray that we all stay inspired to follow Gods will, empowered to live our best lives, driven to reach goals and willing to listen before speaking, so that we may hear God for ourselves. We are almost there guys but have you reach out to get others to #jointhemovement #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 16

Embracing the beauty of growing older, can for some be a scary thing to do. Although, the truth of the matter is that it is a blessing to get older. Each year God gives us becomes another year we are given to live life with those we love and another year to live in purpose. Milestones are often celebrated the most but if you are someone like me, birthdays are treated like holidays lol! The day we were born was thought of long before we arrived and the purpose on our lives was already known as well by God.

Today is Day 16 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I've completed my prayer for today. My workout today will be at home again and I will be focusing on my arms and core following a video found on YouTube, check it out here! https://youtu.be/QN5Nu1aeYyc I will also per usual, add in 60 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells. (Always consult with your Physician first before doing any exercise!) Of course while working out I will be wearing my waist trainer. My scripture reading for today was Philippians Chapter 1 NIV. My prayer for us all is that we may live life and live it abundantly! It's great to be goal oriented and one who pushes to make things happen because faith without works is dead but we should never feel like there is time limit on the purpose God has given. I want to encourage anyone who is reading this to #keepgoing #dontgiveup on whatever it is that God has placed within you because #yougotthis and you are never too old or too young to pursue purpose! As you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme I pray that with each milestone we embrace the time God gives us and learn to not take a single moment for-granted. God bless!

Becoming a Better me - Day 15

"Malice is the intent and desire to do evil, ill will." Are you battling demons from within? Demons such as jealousy, envy, anger, fear, lack of trust, feelings of lust or bitterness. The thoughts of the mind is the culprit to many internal demons that we face. Did you know that even when you don't necessarily act on something, that the thought of sin is just as bad and that you are still sinning with just the thought? Ever get caught up in a sinful thought that was hard to erase mentally out of your mind? Ever felt a certain type of way towards a person on the inside but smiled on the outside, as if all was ok? Ever witness the success of someone else and wondered in your mind, why it wasn't you? Ever been married or in a relationship and someone else other than your significant other catches your eye...(to be continued)

Today is Day 15 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge have you gotten others to #jointhemovement? My prayer for today has been completed and my scripture reading for today will be Romans Chapter 5 NIV. I will be doing my workout outside in my backyard because fresh air is great for the soul. My workout today will be rather quick, 60 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells, 20 push-ups, 2 minute Russian twists with partially elevated feet, 1 minute leg flutters, 1 minute scissors and 30 crunches. (Remember to always include a quick stretch before working out and to consult with your physician first!) Beautiful people do you know we are half way done with the #BecomingaBettermechallenge? 30 days of prayer, 30 days of scripture, 30 days of working out and 30 days of being transparent. My prayer for all of us is that God gives us the strength to continue fighting the many demons we are faced with everyday and the wisdom to make Gods voice the only one we listen to. Let us allow God to use us as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme  because just like the Casey J song "Journal" (Check out the song here!) https://youtu.be/Oq_HPTTLQUg I want us all to breathe the life of Gods word within us #yougotthis #dontgiveup #keepgoing

Becoming a Better me - Day 14

Picture By eidetec.com

Broken wires create lost connections which cause signals to fade in and out. Almost reminds me of relationships among people. Ever wondered how a relationship between two people can start off being so sweet, then years later become so stale. Like, we were just besties yesterday but today you have become a distant stranger. The truth of the matter is that as the days come and go, so does your friends/significant others.

Today is Day 14 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge #jointhemovement! I have done my prayer for today as well as workout. My workout today consisted of a quick stretch, 60 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells, 20 push ups, 1 minute leg flutters, 1 minute scissors, 1 minute of Russian twists with elevated feet and a 10 minute upper body workout I found on YouTube check it out! https://youtu.be/4pcaD3wInqM (Please consult with your Doctor before doing any exercise.) I worked on the full body today but added more upper body. My scripture reading for today will be 1 Peter Chapter 5 NIV. Sometimes we often place too much pressure on ourselves with maintaining certain connections in life, when God could be doing us a favor and cleaning out house. When God places us in our purpose, the people around will be the ones who is meant to be around and a part of our success....

Becoming a Better me - Day 13

What are you afraid of? Why do you keep allowing life to get the best of you? How many times are you going to allow others to dictate who you should be? It's time for you to live your best life with no more excuses. None of us are promised tomorrow so we must do what we can to make everyday count.

Yes, you may have fallen but it's ok, get back up and try it again. If you have prayed and asked God to show you what it is you are to be doing and God has revealed your calling to you, then you must be obedient. Just like the Donna Summer song "Stamp Your Feet" "we have to stand and fight and keep our eyes on the prize and not get caught up in strife." Check the song out here! https://youtu.be/tNMgPFp66lk Transparent moment...I used to care strongly about...(to be continued)

Today is Day 13 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I worked out at home today. My workout today was for the whole body. (Remember to consult with your Doctor before doing any workouts). I did a quick stretch, 60 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells, 60 crunches, 50 side lying leg lifts, 50  regular leg lifts, 30 push ups, 1 minute of Russian twist with partially elevated feet, 1 minute of leg flutters, 1 minute of scissors and a 1 minute wall sit squat with one 10 pound dumbbell. Keep in mind that I'm still drinking the "Flat Tummy Water" and wearing my waist trainer. I've also completed my prayer for today and read Isaiah Chapter 41 for my scripture reading. Know that God wants nothing but the best for us but we must also see ourselves in the same light that God does. If you have a purpose, start setting goals for yourself, so that the purpose on your life can be obtained. Remember as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou and I work on #BecomingaBetterme that #yougotthis so #keepgoing and #dontgiveup and push others to #jointhemovement

Becoming a Better me - Day 12

Staying faithful to the word of God in the midst of despair can be challenging. Often when the pressure is on, it can become unbearable and stressful. We often wonder what we did wrong, when things seem to be getting out of hand. At the times that we should be praying, we chose to worry. When it seems as though we are not deserving of Gods love due to the turmoil in our lives, we shy away from the house of the Lord because we feel unworthy of his love. Do you know that even the bad things are working together for our good? Do you know that the closer you get to your purpose, the more the devil tries to deter you?

Today is Day 12 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout today included a quick stretch, 60 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells, 35 push ups, 1 minute plank, 2 minute Russian twists, 50 crunches, 1 minute leg flutters, 1 minute scissors, 40 leg lifts, 50 side lying leg lifts and a minute wall sit squat. (Consult with your Doctor before doing any workout.) I completed my prayer for today and also worshipped at Triumph Church today. My scripture for today will be Isiah chapter 6. Stay inspired loves as you continue #BecomingaBetteryou and I will continue to keep faith in myself and all of you as I continue #BecomingaBetterme because we are in it to win it! #jointhemovement

Becoming a Better me - Day 11

The essence of love is beyond powerful. Love literally does make the world go around. Without love we are simply empty, soul less human beings. Love is inspiring and fuels the spirit effortlessly. Love is light and love is like a good book you can't put down. Love is beautiful and love brings out the best in us. Love brings joy unlike anything else. Love is deeper than words and so impeccably sweet.

Love makes you smile!

Today is Day 11 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout today consisted of 50 squats with two 10 pound dumbbells, 1 minute of mountain climbers, 2 minute of Russian twists with feet partially elevated, 15 push ups, 1 minute of leg flutters, 1 minute of scissors, 1 minute plank, 30 crunches and 20 hip thrusts. (Please consult with your Doctor or Physician before doing any exercises and always stretch the body first!) I also did my entire workout while wearing my Kiwi Rata waist trainer. If you are following my workouts, you can see quicker results if you delete carbs from your diet which is what I haven't done yet, I've only cut down on the amount. I've completed my prayer for today and my scripture for today is 1 Corinthians 13:4-5.

I pray that you all will love without any limits, unconditionally, the way God loves! So as you work on #BecomingaBetteryou I will continue working on #BecomingaBetterme #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 10

As I look into the culprit of things I’ve learned that when you're alone, so many things become clearer. I believe that all things happen for a reason in life and that most often stillness is given to bring forth truth. The world around us can be so full of noise, that we can't see or hear what it is that God is trying to convey. It can seem like crowds of people surround you when your skies are blue but once those skies begin to turn gray, those same crowds fade away. The need to feel love and the need of acceptance thereof, can be overwhelming to the spirit.  The question then becomes, what type of relationships do you surround yourself with the most?

Ultimately, it boils down to this one true fact and that fact is, the one true relationship that is needed the most before ANY other relationship, is one with God. In that same token although we know that a relationship with God is most important, many of us including myself are guilty of pushing God to the side and dealing with God only when we see fit.  The normalcy of our actions and lack thereof to make God a priority is a true indication that all of us have some work to do.

Today is Day 10 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I worked out at home today. I started my workout with a few stretches and proceeded to follow a 10 minute workout I found on YouTube check it out! https://youtu.be/_KGNq7PEHkU After I finished the 10 minute upper body workout, I did 60 squats using two 10 pound dumbbells, 40 leg lifts, 1 minute plank, 1 minute of Russian twist with my feet partially elevated and ended with 50 jumping jacks. Again, you don’t have to follow my workout routine, just make sure you are doing some type of exercise daily for at-least 10 minutes. (Consult with your Doctor or Physician first before doing any exercise.) In addiction to working out, I'm also still drinking the "Flat Tummy Water" and wearing my Kiwi Rata waist trainer during my workouts and sometimes after. My prayer for today has been completed and my scripture reading was Isiah Chapter 14 NKJV and NIV if you need more clarity as I usually do.

Transparent moment…I believe my marriage has suffered...(to be continued)

Becoming a Better me - Day 9

The power of receiving confirmation in the midst of tribulation is like being told you hit the mega millions! When you have been praying and seeking answers but still feel as though you are blinded by the world's ideology of truth, one must simply ask God to make the answer clear. Often, we stand in our own way because we are flawed human beings who tend to make premature decisions based off feelings rather than God's word. 

Today is Day 9 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my primary focus today was cardio. I got a good and intense workout today while sporting my new waist trainer by Kiwi Rata. If I must say so myself, I'm in-love with the way the Kiwi Rata waist trainer fits, as well as how it makes me sweat even more in my tummy area. Even without doing any Ab workouts I felt as though that area was targeted! I've also still been drinking the "Flat Tummy Water" I found out about online. My workout today included 30 minutes of cycling, 50 squats with a 10 pound weight as shown in the picture above and 30 side sit ups using the ab machine that is also shown in the picture above. By time the workout was done my legs and thighs were burning, which is a great sign that it is all working! #keepgoing and #dontgiveup because #yougotthis 

My scripture reading for today was Isiah Chapter 5 KJV as well as the NIV. I completed my daily prayer earlier today but I want to take a moment and pray for those of you who are reading this. Father God I pray on today that whomever you saw fit to read todays blog that you will point them into the direction you planned out for them. Father God I ask that in the midst of despair, confusion, trial or tribulation that the person reading this will hear you and you alone. I pray Father God that when they find themselves stuck, trying to figure out if it's you speaking to them, that you will make things clear for them. So clear Father God that they will have no choice but to be obedient to your word. I pray Father God that from that point on after you have made yourself known to them, that you will give them the strength and wisdom to follow you. In Jesus name Amen! Stay bless!

Becoming a Better me - Day 8

If you can say it, you can control it! I'm not talking about action people but what I am referring to is your tongue. Ever heard the saying "that life and death is in the power of the tongue"? I believe that to be fact, yet in still even I sometimes say things that I shouldn't. One may say, well I was speaking truth and that could in fact be what it was, however, we must learn to find better ways of communicating especially when it comes to dealing with conflict. Even when we are faced with turmoil in our lives and can't figure out which way to go, instead of turning towards negativity, why not give thanks for what is going right?

Body Solid Leg Press/Hack Squat Machine #myfavorite 

Today is Day 8 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and my workout session took place at the gym. I did 2 minutes of the Stair Master at a speed of 6 just to get my adrenaline going, that was followed by 2 minutes of Russian twists, 40 sit ups, 50 crunches, 1 minute of leg flutters, 30 side sit ups (15 for the left side, 15 for right side), 50 squats using two 10 pound dumbbells and then I ended with the Body Solid Machine and did 45 leg press adding 25 pound weights on both ends. My body is feeling a little sore because I went up on my weights but it's a good sore. I have completed my prayer for today and my scripture reading will be 1 John Chapter 1 KJV. May we all learn to speak life over our lives and be a light to anyone who is in our presence, why because you are #BecomingaBetteryou as I am #BecomingaBetterme get others to join the movement and let your light shine! #keepgoing #yougotthis #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 7

Have you ever felt the need to want to be perfect? Like in my case, I honestly struggle with the need of being the perfect wife, the perfect mother, the perfect business woman, the perfect friend, etc. As we all know no one is perfect and you will honestly stress yourself out aiming to be. Transparent moment...although I know I'm not perfect, when I fail at something I feel defeated. Often times the pressure I place on myself to be the best in something takes a toll on me.

Today is Day 7 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I worked out at home today. I completed a 10 minute Ab workout that I found on YouTube check it out! https://youtu.be/hxjKZcOT17E In addition to the 10 minute workout I added 50 squats using two 10 pound dumbbells for added weight. (As with any workout rather you follow me or do your own, please consult with your physician first!)My daily prayer has also been completed and the scripture I read today was Psalm Chapter 3 from NIV. I have no particular way of how I read scripture, I simply just go with where I'm lead. I pray you all continue to go hard in whatever goal you have set for yourself and remember #yougotthis #dontgiveup #keepgoing because if you want better, you must do better! That is the goal in #BecomingaBetteryou as I work on #BecomingaBetterme because change begins with us! Be bless!

Becoming a Better me - Day 6

Today was an LA Fitness kind of day! Got up bright and early! Ready and willing to take on the day in a positive way. I started my workout with some light cardio, 13 minutes at a speed of 6 on the elliptical, then headed over to the weight area and did 90 leg press/hack squats using the Body Solid weight machine. Immediately after, I did 50 squats using 15 pound dumbbells in both hands. So I worked on the lower body again today while wearing my waist trainer, so that I could burn in my stomach area as well. I also had my "Flat Tummy Water" today, along with a Whey Protein smoothie so that I could start fueling my body with good protein instead of bad, which is great for muscle building. Overall, it was a very successful day in the gym for me and my good friend T! We are both on the journey to #BecomingaBetterme and I encourage you all to join the movement!

I completed my prayer for today but of course I will be in prayer again I'm sure. The scripture I will be reading today will be James Chapter 1 KJV. Remember the movement includes 30 days of working out, 30 days of prayer, 30 days of scripture and 30 days of transparency! My transparent moment today is that sometimes we must do self evaluating. Last night I watched the BET awards and what I loved about it this year, is that it touched on a lot of the issues the world is dealing with today. Issues such as police brutality, shooting massacres, self love, and much more. One performance that stood out to me the most was Meek Mill and Miguel performance of their song "Stay Woke" check it out here! https://youtu.be/IIUz_kkruFc Their performance brought tears to my eyes.....(to be continued)

Image by www.blackmattersus.com

Image by www.copblock.org

Understand that change starts with us as well, individually speaking. How can we be better as a people? #BecomingaBetteryou as I work on #BecomingaBetterme we can help make the world a better place one step at a time! #keepgoing #yougothis #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 5

Replenish, fresh and new, are just a few words to describe my exact feelings at this present moment. Didn't start my day feeling that way though. In fact, I felt irritated, upset and angry. Funny how the devil works. Transparent moment for me today is that I work hard at being the best me that I know how to be but sometimes, my mood can alter depending on who is my presence. Which is reassurance that my relationship with God needs work. I say that because NO ONE absolutely NO ONE should ever be able to steal your joy or alter your mood, especially in a way that does not represent Godly behavior. 

Today is Day 5 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I've prayed quite a few times today and trust me, it was much needed. I also visited Triumph Church today their Eastland Campus and got in a much needed word and was blessed to hear Todd Dulaney sing in the service. I promise it is always good to be in the presence of the Lord and to praise where one or more are gathered. I worked out early this morning and worked primarily on the lower body, following a 10 minute workout video I found on YouTube check it out! https://youtu.be/dByTECYIUek In addiction to the 10 minute workout, I also added in 25 right leg lifts, 25 left leg lifts and a 30 second wall sit squat. My scripture for today will be Romans Chapter 12 KJV. Remember despite of anything keep working on #BecomingaBetteryou as I work on #BecomingaBetterme #yougotthis #dontgiveup #keepgoing and tell others to join the movement! Oh yeah, last but not least smile! Smiling is so good for the soul!

Becoming a Better me - Day 4

If you're like me you probably ask yourself often "when will I win"? You've been putting in the work but still the results are not what you expect. Everyday you push yourself a little harder hoping that this time you will finally get what you want. Can I be transparent with you for a moment? I'm not just talking about your workout plan but.....(to be continued)

Today is Day 4 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and I pray you all are excelling at being a better you! Today I started my day with a cup of my "Flat Tummy Water", got my Marvin Sapp Pandora station going, my yoga mat layed out with my set of 10 pounds dumbbells and hit play on this awesome 10 minute workout video I found on Youtube! Check it out below!

https://youtu.be/Q-vuR4PJh2c

Honestly speaking, those 10 minutes felt like I had just done an hour long workout. I wanted to target my abs today and sweat so of course I had on my waist trainer as I worked out. Once I finished the 10 minute workout I added 50 squats using the dumbbells and 60 leg lifts because as you know I'm trying to keep the little butt I have left lol! I did a prayer befor the workout as well as after. Then doing breakfast I watched a sermon by Pastor Michael Todd titled "Grace For The Faithful" https://youtu.be/keVcJEbt9VU, you should check that out as well! The message given in that sermon was beyond refreshing and Pastor Todd teaching is impeccable! In just a few I will be reading Galatians 6 the King James version #dailyscripture. Remember 30 days of prayer, 30 days of working out, 30 days of scripture reading and 30 days of transparency! Join the movement #yougotthis #keepgoing #dontgiveup

Becoming a Better me - Day 3

Rise and shine! I'm feeling beyond bless on today! The joy I feel is something sure of amazing! Today is day 3 of the #BecomingaBettermechallenge and today was another missed day at the gym but of course there was no missed workout. I repeated day 2 exercises as well day 2 breakfast. It is Friday and in my house that is family fun day! So I will be getting my little ones out today and enjoying this beautiful day that God has given us. My transparency moment today is dedicated to my baby boy aka Prince Nasir who was born with a heart condition called SVT (Super-ventricular Tachycardia). Nasir had to stay in the hospital after he was born for almost 3 weeks and placed on two different heart medications..... to be continued

Can you say bless? My family and I are too excited because God has been so great to us! Let today be a lesson in knowing that as long as you keep your faith and put in the work the results of your great works will show. On today I repeated Day 2 workouts as well as breakfast  which was 60 jumping jacks, 50 squats with 10 pound dumbbells, 30 second wall sit squat, 1 minute of Russian twists, 50 crunches, 60 second plank, 60 left leg lifts, 60 right leg lifts, 25 reverse left leg lifts and 25 reverse right leg lifts. What I did differently today was implement this "Flat Tummy Water" into my daily regimen as well as a waist trainer. I actually heard about it from an Instagram post and decided to try it. It consist of 6 cups of filtered water, 1 lemon, 1/3 cup of mint leaves, 1 tbsp. of grated ginger and 1 cucumber slice. You have to allow the mixture to set overnight before drinking it. The benefits of "Flat Tummy Water" is that it helps reduces cravings, it hydrates the body, helps clean the digestive tract and prevents bloating. There are some negative side effects as well but nothing serious but still do your own research and as with anything including working out, make sure you consult with your Doctor first. My prayer for today has been completed and the scripture I will be reading is 1 Peter Chapter 1 NIV. Now if you haven't already get Day 3 of #BecomingaBettermechallenge out the way and make sure to pray and read your daily scripture! Until next time remember #yougotthis #dontgiveup #stayfocus

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Becoming a Better me - Day 2

Reality is I'm not always able to make it to the gym but everyday like clock work I'm up at 5 a.m.
One may say but I have children and they sometimes get in the way. Well I know the feeling all too well. In fact, while my 5 month old was sleeping, my two year old decided to wake up earlier than expected...whelp there goes my workout and much needed me time. Seriously, you can't be kidding me! It should never be that easy to give up. You have a goal right? You want that Teyana Taylor and Beyoncé body right? You want that Michael B. Jordan body right? Well...maybe that's just my way of thinking. Every person body goal may be different and that is fine, for some it may just be a getting healthy goal. After conversing with myself, I decided to just allow my two year old to joined me. As I did my crunches he sat on top of my stomach #weightresistance. When I did my jumping jacks he did his too, I kept him moving which will eventually get him tired lol. I say this all to say, that regardless of the circumstance, don't make excuses!

Today is Day 2 of the #BecomingaBettermeChallenge and I did my daily workout which included 60 jumping jacks, 50 squats with 10 pound dumbbells, 30 second wall sit squat, 1 minute of Russian twists, 50 crunches, 60 second plank, 60 left leg lifts, 60 right leg lifts, 25 reverse left leg lifts and 25 reverse right leg lifts. I did my prayer for today but I'm sure I will be praying again. I also read scriptures today from 2 Kings Chapter 8 NIV. No particular order just asked God to lead me. My transparency moment is that sometimes in life, things don't always go as you plan them to and that can be frustrating. The good in things not going as planned is that you learn to find solutions, therefore you gain perseverance. #stayfocus #don'tgiveup #yougotthis #BecomingaBetterme