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Tag Archives: books

A life less ordinary…

28 Monday Dec 2015

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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2016, blessings, books, Boundaries, chocolate, Christmas, Confidence, fabulous, faith, favoured, grace, gratitude, Health, Hug, kindness, Laugh, life, Listen, love, Miracle, Most High, new year, Obedience, Ordinary, peace, perspective, pray, Prayer, purpose, Rainbow, Read, reason, Sing, Sleep, Speak, Storm, sunrise, sunset, Talent, time, To God be the glory, unconditional love, Walk

This Christmas will go down in the book of memories as one of my best. Ever.
I won’t bore you with the details other than to say, to God be the glory.
Truly, He still works in mysterious ways… and for that I’m most thankful

As the year slowly draws to an end and we look forward to the promise of 2016, my prayer for you is to:

*Continue to walk and bask in God’s grace
*Open your heart to give and receive unconditional love
*Remember that somebody loves you
*For the singles: somebody is praying to meet someone just like you
*Embrace the gift of each moment
*Enjoy the beauty of a sunset or sunrise
*Look for the rainbow after each storm
*Increase your faith
*Spend more time in prayer
*Spend more time meditating on the Word
*Choose always to live on purpose
*Laugh more
*Be courageous
*Cherish friendships
*Walk with confidence
*Shatter any self-imposed limitations
*Spread kindness
*Be a cheerful giver – of time, talent and self
*Hug more
*Talk less and listen more
*Sing more (even if it’s only in the shower)
*Ask for help
*Keep those boundaries intact
*Let go of those ties that are cut for a reason
*Take time out for you
*Sleep more
*Eat more chocolate
*Read at least one book a month
*Treat yourself as often as you can
*Always count your blessings
*Remember that you are a son/daughter of the Most High
*Immerse yourself in the favour that follows you
*Wake up each day with the knowledge that it’s your time
*2016 is the year of one miracle after another… no ear has heard or eye has seen what the Lord has in store for those who choose complete obedience
*More than anything else, I pray that you are always blessed with good health (body, mind and spirit). There’s no substitute for good health

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

2016purpose

Purpose trumps pain!

30 Monday Nov 2015

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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Tags

Abuse, authentic, Beauty For Ashes, books, Children, Deliver, Empower, encourage, fabulous, favoured, God, Heal, help, Honest, Lawanda Peters Ministry, life, marriage, Opportunity, purpose, Read, Real, relationships, story, time, truth

Happy Monday lovelies!

I’m super excited about sharing today’s post.
First, I’m going to start by saying to God be the glory, always.
When we truly surrender and allow the great I AM to take the lead, the results are completely humbling.

I had the honour of chatting to Author Lawanda Peters about her book Beauty for Ashes and couldn’t wait to upload it. This is what she had to say:

* When did you realise that you were going to write this book?
I realised I was going to write a book in 2000, when I was at my lowest. I’d lost *everything* I had – mentally (pretty much), financially, physically. I knew that someone else needed to hear my story; the abuse, failed marriages, rejection, self-esteem issues, etc. I wanted to be transparent and real with people, having seen so much in the church, the world, and family.

* How did the title come about?
The title of my book was given by the Holy Spirit. God spoke clearly to me as I cried out to Him one day; ‘why me’ and ‘how long will I go through this suffering’. And it was in that moment that He responded, “I’m giving you Beauty For Ashes. When you come out, you will not look like what you’ve gone through.”

* Tell us a bit more about this book…
Beauty For Ashes is part autobiography, and part encouragement and empowerment. I share my life in a very sensitive, but real way. As a girl from the South, I grew up on a 200 acre farm and we were a very close knit family. I witnessed abuse and alcoholism from an early age; processing what I know today as rejection or “black sheep” syndrome. All these experiences made me want to share so others could be delivered. In the book, I talk about how I endured physical as well as mental abuse and there’s also a part that explains how I almost lost my son at five months, due to abuse, I also talk about being homeless and going from having everything to losing it all. More importantly, you will see that it was through forgiveness and pure determination to press on and not lose hope that I am still able to stand. This book is more than just my life’s experiences – I share the Word that will help others break free and walk in their destiny.

* Is there a specific message that you would like readers to walk away with?
I would like for every reader to feel enlightened, empowered, and encouraged; knowing that it does not matter what comes your way, you are victorious, and you are an overcomer in Christ.

* Were there any surprising things or let’s say revelations while writing this book?
The revelations in writing this book were evident and very real. Everything I went through was first hand experiences. God has shown me many times that this book would reach millions and many would be delivered from abuse and so much more. He also showed me that it would be not only a book, but a play and a movie. I’m still standing on His word.

* What do you think makes this book different from others?
I would have to say it’s the authenticity! Many times we are taught not to be transparent (not to tell everything), but I was compelled to share in the rawest form ever. I had to let people know that just because you are where you are today, doesn’t mean you didn’t go through things or that you were perfect. He can take our mess and turn it into a message to bring healing to others. So the realness and transparency makes it different and captivating.

* Why should someone read it?
Because it’s not just me telling a story, it’s me sharing my life experiences. There’s no sugar coating, just truth… and this is what brings true healing and deliverance. So, if someone is dealing with, mental/physical abuse, rejection, low self-esteem, broken relationships, a failed marriage, homelessness, being on top and suddenly you’re at the bottom with nothing, asking what’s wrong with me?… after reading this both men and women will have a new outlook on things.

* Have you received feedback from readers?
I’ve received tons of messages from readers. I must say it has been overwhelming and humbling (thankful to God) to receive such powerful, motivating feedback. Many individuals were moved from the very first chapter. I was told by several readers, “Once I started reading your book, I couldn’t put it down.” And, I’ve cried with some, laughed with others, and celebrated with many. All glory belongs to our Father!

* Can we expect more books from you?
Yes, you can expect more books from me. I’m working on my Daily Inspirations book, which will have quotes to encourage and uplift you, daily. I’m also working on another book, Learning To Love You. I’m very excited about where God is taking me. I give him ALL glory, honor and praises.

* Any last thoughts you’d like to add…
I thank God, who truly directs and orders my steps, for all of the opportunities and doors that He has opened and is still opening. I thank you Woman of God for the opportunity, you are an angel sent from God to encourage, uplift and push others into their destiny.

Also, thank you to those who have purchased and supported Beauty For Ashes and LaWanda Peters Ministry. If you have not gotten a copy, please do, you will not be disappointed. It can be purchased at http://www.LaWandaPeters.com. Remember, your best is yet to come!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured x

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Have you heard?

19 Thursday Nov 2015

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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Tags

Author, books, caring, change, Christians, Cristina Cain, experience, fabulous, favoured, God, Hearing, journey, kind, life, Listening, Lives, Loving, perspective, Picture, Polite, purpose, reading, sharing, Speaking, story, truth, Twitter, writing

So it’s no secret that I love, love, love books.

Thanks to twitter I stumbled across a specific timeline that had a picture of a book entitled “You Can Hear God”; of course I wanted to know more and then connected with the author, Cristina Cain.
And what an amazing experience…

Have you ever met someone and it feels like you’ve known them your whole life?
You know the kind of person who’s genuine, kind, caring, God-fearing, calls a spade a spade, loving, polite human being… that is Cristina.

In today’s superficial world, it’s refreshing to meet someone truly authentic.
I caught up with Cristina earlier this week to find out more about her book and this is what she had to say:

·How did this book come about?
The book came about from a Supernatural experience I had in 2003…which I speak about in the book.
As I learned about my gifts, God said I would one day do the same for millions of lives, and so the prophecy is now being fulfilled.

·Tell me more about this book – an overview?
It’s about me sharing how I developed an attunement to the voice of God. Growing up with a special gift of prophecy, I later explored ways to incorporate this gift to heal and help others. On my journey, there were stumbling blocks and I share about how we can often be distracted by these (as we continue in our spiritual quest) and how they can thwart how we embrace God and our spiritual progress. My story is one of awareness, submission to God, and discerning how to use your God-given gifts to honor His name.

·Who should read this book?
I would say anyone who has ever desired to hear from God Himself, the churched and un-churched. I especially encourage those who seek out psychics, and mediums, these people hunger for TRUTH, and we know as believers that Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the Life. This book allows both beginner, and mature Christian to learn about the voice of God in a deeper meaningful way.

·Why should they read this book?
You will not have to make endless, unnecessary mistakes by being led of your own understanding. The Voice of God will have you choose the right spouse, career, friends, and lead you into a prosperous life that only he can offer. We have one opportunity to “get it right”. As believers in Christ Jesus, we know there’s no such notion, idea, as reincarnation, so hearing the voice of God will allow us to get it right the first time.

·How did your love of writing come about?
The joy of writing began as I studied Journalism and Broadcasting in college. I had an amazing Professor, a very well respected Poet, who encouraged the writer in me. He made the creative process and fine tuning the grammatical, a marriage. For me that simply made sense and I began to grasp it in a way I never did.

·What book or books have had the most influence on you or your writing style?
There’s not one book in particular. I love a book that I can identify with, and one that gets right to the point, easy to read. So in writing this book, God made it clear to keep it very simplistic, relatable and that’s what makes it enjoyable, yet powerful.

·Can we expect other books from you?
Yes more are on the way, just taking a much needed break. Truly writing takes every fibre of your being, and I’m trying to be replenished, still. I have no desire to put out books just for the sake of it; I must be prompted by the Holy Spirit.

·Any other final comments…
This is a great book, a tool for prophetic children, and for those with prophetic giftings. Also an interesting way to win souls for those who may never enter the four walls called church. Lastly, it’s a great stocking stuffer for Christmas.

P.S This book is available at Amazon, iBook, Barnes & Noble online and in Barnes & Noble stores in Orlando, FL.
For more information visit: http://www.cristinacain.com/store

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous & favoured x

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Page after page…

03 Tuesday Nov 2015

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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authenticity, authors, books, Brene Brown, Chapters, chocolate, courage, Happy reading, honesty, journey, life, Melinda Ferguson, Pages, purpose, reading, Robin S Sharma, stories, truth

I love reading.
If I was stranded on a deserted island with nothing more than a pile of books, I’d be the happiest person.

Whether it’s curled up on my bed or couch, outside on the grass or sinking in the sea sand, a book plus stash of chocolate (preferably Lindt) is my guilty pleasure.

While I’m not averse to modern technology, when it comes to reading I still prefer holding a book. Turning those pages and using a bookmark.

I’m also not a selfish reader, I quite enjoy passing books along.

If you are looking for a few suggestions to your reading list, below are 5 of my must reads at the moment.

Happy reading!

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Looking forward to…

18 Tuesday Aug 2015

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Alive, Authentically, Best days, Birthday, books, brother, chocolate, courage, experience, fabulous, favoured, Flowers, Friends, Fulfilled, God, good people, grace, gratitude, heart, Heartache, hugs, laughter, life, love, Nature, parents, Rain, siblings, Sister, Sun, time, Wind

I woke up feeling very emo. Not sad. Rather more thankful.

With another birthday just hours away I’m deeply grateful for the gift of life; and God’s grace showered upon me daily.

I jotted down a few things – that have shaped my journey – in my Gratitude Journal earlier and thought I’d share a few with you.

* Parents – need I say more

* Brother & sister – for keeping me grounded, the fights, laughs and memories over the years

* Cousins – they are an extension of my siblings

* Friends – for letting me be me and creating a safety net when I need it

* Nature – whether it’s soaking up the sun, feeling rain drops on my cheeks or the wind blowing through my hair

* Courage – to walk away from toxic situations & people

* Hindsight – go figure!

* Hugs – whether it’s to express appreciation or a sign of comfort and support

* Voice notes – from the special, little people in my space especially Eli and Leah

* Flowers – to remind that it’s really all about the simple things in life… that’s what makes me happy

* Chocolate – because… which woman can live without these comforting cubes?

* Books – when I need to escape nothing comes close to turning the pages of a good read

* Heartache – you haven’t lived till you’ve had your heart smashed into splinters and then for time to heal and make you whole again

* The future – I know this next chapter of my life is going to make everything else pale in comparison. That what God has in store for me no eye has seen or ear heard…

For every single moment I get to open my eyes & am blessed to declare that I’m ALIVE, my heart flows with gratitude.

P.S my birthday wish is: that YOU will live authentically & find fulfillment in every experience.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous & favoured xxx

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Turn the pages…

20 Saturday Dec 2014

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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authentic, books, chocolate, fabulous, family, favoured, Friends, leadership, me time, South Africa, time

After chocolate (yes I’m a chocoholic) I love, love, love reading.

I’d gladly hand over my smartphone in exchange for a book. Apart from the bonding with family and friends over the next few days, I’ve made a conscious decision to have “book/me time”.

I think we underestimate the importance of switching off and taking time out for ourselves. It’s all well and good being on hand for everyone but YOU are just as important.

Treat yourself. Go on…

My next two reads were chosen because these are two people who make me feel so proud to be South African; they are also my idea of what makes an authentic leader.

I’ve taken a peak at the first chapter of each book and I know I’m going to give them both the thumbs up.

So, let me log off and turn a few pages…

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay favoured and fabulous x

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Life’s little pleasures…

04 Thursday Dec 2014

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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books, chocolate, family, Friends, God, grace, introspection, laughter, love, movies, perspective, siblings, sisters, sunrises, sunsets

I’ve been doing loads of introspection of late. In this fast-paced, diary-driven world, quiet time is essential.

I find that if I don’t make a conscious effort to shut off and out, it’s so easy to drown in the noise and pessimism. As an ardent proponent of the gratitude brigade, I got thinking about the things (in no particular order) that make my days more sunshine than gray skies…

· The grace of God – where would I be without salvation?!
· My parents – for the love, values and firm foundation in life
· My siblings – for the unconditional love, support and goofy times
· Family gatherings – the love, laughter and inevitable “drama”
· Purpose – knowing what I need to do and where I’m heading
· Friends – pure joy that should be bottled
· Mentors – makes learning and growing such a treat
· Challenges – the pain is what propels me to keep moving
· Books – I love losing myself in stories that offer perspective and insight
· Writing – how many get to play with words for a living
· Chocolate – need I say more?!
· Chocolate cake and fresh cream
· Peppermint tart
· Sleep – nothing beats a good night’s rest
· The smell of freshly cut grass
· The smell of mac & cheese or bread, fresh out of the oven
· Toasted cheese sarmies
· Sunday newspapers
· Mr Delivery for those lazy pj days
· Sweatpants and “home” T-shirts
· Long weekends
· Sunrises
· Sunsets
· Old movies – Casablanca, Gone with the Wind and the like
· Re-runs of Friends, Greys Anatomy, The Fixer

I think the one thing that I treasure the most is my “sisters” from another mother who know me better than anyone; and still love me just the way I am (*cue Billy Joel’s Don’t Go Changing). These “sisters” keep me grounded, give me strength when it’s needed most and generally keep it real.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay favoured and fabulous x

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Looking for a book?

23 Sunday Nov 2014

Posted by Gaynor Kast in Uncategorized

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authors, books, forgiveness, inspiration, literature, love, Malala, Mandela, miracles, Nobel Peace Prize, peace, politics, stories, truth, words

Currently reading these two books. Both are remarkable stories; so many lessons to learn…

Inspiration.
Truth.
Forgiveness.
Love.
Peace.
Hope.

If you are looking for books to add to your list, I’d highly recommend these.

Happy reading x

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