Tag Archives: smile

It’s the most wonderful time…

14 Friday Dec 2018

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… of the year. Indeed it is a time where family and friends gather to feast on all things festive. But, for some, it’s the loneliest and saddest time too… for various reasons.

As we go through the motions of this holiday season, I would like to encourage us to be more mindful of the next person – whether known or a random stranger. Sharing a simple smile, marshmallow, singing carols or taking the time to listen, will do someone out there a world of good. Even better still, it will reignite a sense of dignity and worth to a soul whose focus is purely embedded in pain.

From me to you… I pray the pure joy, eternal hope and perfect peace that the birth of Jesus Christ offers the world is always stored in your heart and home. May your days be peppered with ladles of love and laughter. Be safe.

Blessings always xox

love and christmas

While you are waiting…

27 Tuesday Feb 2018

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When I woke up yesterday, I had no idea how my day would pan out. Usually, there’s some sort of “plan”… so if I need to tweak it here and there, it can be done without any hassle.

But, I found myself driving to the beachfront. There’s been tons going on around me – some matters less complicated than others but still enough to rattle the free flow of this thing we call life.

It was only when I pulled up into a parking bay, that it dawned on me that I’m doing something so out of character. I smiled and reminded myself that I’m not a robot and so it’s okay that I get to choose to be present. That it’s okay that I do whatever it is that makes sense to me in that given moment. As long as I’m not inflicting hurt or pain on another, it’s perfectly fine.

It was a beautiful, balmy day in Durban and apart from the odd cyclist, jogger or couple on a walkabout, it was still. The kind of day that felt like it was ready to wrap its arms around my exhausted soul.

The smell of the ocean and soothing sounds of the waves made me feel like this specific piece of paradise was created just for me. I closed my eyes for a few minutes in pure gratitude. And through the salty tears, all I kept hearing was a gentle voice, whispering “be still and know that I am God”.

I smiled.
Blinked.
Looked around.
Smiled again.
In that moment, I knew what that meant.

It was in that moment that I found peace. Again.

Added to this was a fishing rod that I spotted. My eyes were fixed on that rod.
What was it about that fishing rod? It’s not like it was the first time I had ever seen a rod.

In that moment I realised that when we are in a waiting season – or transitional phase – it’s important to stay anchored to our true and Sovereign source of hope and life, God.

If you are reading this, and find yourself in an in-between phase in your life, I’d like to encourage you.

Don’t give up. Don’t you dare contemplate quitting. The tables will turn.

Stay true to your purpose.
Stay true to your core values.
Stay true to living in love and hope.
Stay true to the Rock of your salvation.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

One random act…

06 Monday Mar 2017

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…of kindness is all it takes. Whether it’s a simple hug, smile or opening the door.

It could also be paying the parking ticket for the car behind you, tipping the waitress (even if there was no smile), a petrol attendant or packer in the store. If you’d like to do something on a slightly bigger scale, drop off breakfast, lunch or dinner for a friend or family.

A friend shared how she buys gift cards from a local grocery store, attaches an encouraging note and then drops it off on door steps of homes that are in need of some assistance. Someone else shared with me how they visit orphanages and read/play with the kids for an hour or two. Then, someone else visits an old age home and pampers the grannies with a mani/pedi  and hairdo.

All in the name of love.

It’s these little acts of compassion that have a huge impact in the life of the recipient. I truly believe that this world would be a less horrid place if we all reach deep within and pay it forward.

The truth is, you are blessed to be a blessing. Don’t waste another moment to spread a little TLC.

Aaaaand… go.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

It is what it is…

03 Saturday Dec 2016

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It’s been a while since I’ve posted…

So much has happened.

So many eye-opening experiences.

So many moments to hold onto and cherish.

So many times I wished I was at the wrong place at the wrong time.

So many times I wished I could’ve seen what was coming to stop the nightmare of epic proportions.

 

But, that wasn’t to be…

 

And so there I was in the thick of things.

Feeling like a ton of bricks had been thrown in my face at lightning speed.

Feeling like for just one minute things could be different.

Feeling like time could stand still and someone could wake me up from what felt like a bad dream with each passing second.

 

But, that wasn’t to be…

And so there I was in true “me-mode”.

Doing what I do best and holding onto what I know is right and true… my faith.

 

I prayed. I cried. I fasted. I worshipped. I gave thanks. Repeat.

 

And so I’d like to encourage someone who finds him/herself in a precarious situation, this too shall pass. You shrug, but it’s true.

Certain situations and experiences are best avoided (if we were not living a purpose filled life) but if they are part of your Divine journey then it’s best to embrace it, learn what you need and evolve…

 

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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Somewhere, someone needs you…

09 Thursday Jun 2016

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Someone asked me the other day whether I have “bad” days.
Of course, I do.

I’m not a robot.

I love. I laugh. I smile. I cry. I frown. I grit my teeth.

My patience runs thin from time to time and I have moments where I lose my cool. But, you can count those on one hand… and they hardly ever last long.

At the end of the day, I’m just an imperfect vessel living in a complicated world, getting through each day purely by His grace.

What has been somewhat liberating is embracing the fact that with time, some people will be left behind as my journey takes a few detours.

A few years ago, I would never dream of accepting this and would want to cling to those who crossed my path like my life depended on it. Time is a wonderful thing. Perspective is everything.

I’ve also come to the realisation that some people will never fully understand or accept the kindness, compassion and love you choose to offer. And that’s okay too. Pray for them and leave them be.

Somewhere, someone is in need of your authenticity.
Now go out there and keep living, loving and learning.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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Striding with purpose!

21 Monday Dec 2015

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(Source: Brene Brown)

There are moments in life when we all feel like throwing in the towel; whether it’s work, a relationship, a project and even ministry. And not because we are weak but because the load just appears to be super heavy and we feel like we need some breathing space.

But, have you noticed that it’s at those times that some wonderful person will cross your path, and with just one word, they will give you that extra nudge to keep moving along purposefully.

This year, I’m super thankful for the many Divine connections, that were sent my way at the right time.
I am able to keep going through unmerited grace plus the selflessness of these wonderful men and women.

I’m sure you too can identify a guardian angel or two that saved the day or was the voice of reason 🙂
Or, maybe you’ve been the one to make a difference and help someone keep going.

I’ve said it before and will say it again, no person is an island… we all need each other.
This week especially, be generous… not necessarily with money but with your time and talent.

Here’s the challenge: will you choose to make at least one person smile this Christmas?!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

Love in action!

17 Thursday Dec 2015

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I love, love, love this time of the year.
It brings with it a sense of peace and unconditional love that the rest of the year cannot lay claim to.

It’s like every worry, every fear, all indecision falls away at Christmas.

It’s about spreading goodwill, love and laughter to young and old, family, friends and complete strangers.

I’m what my siblings would describe as “old school” and have to say I wear that badge proudly.
Some things just aren’t the same when they are put through the remix mill… I’m sure you will agree 🙂

Today, I want to share Christmas carols that I hope will make your heart smile and more importantly, see you reaching out to those who cross your path during this season.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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Reach out & rise up!

01 Tuesday Dec 2015

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On this first day of December, my hope is that you will:

Choose to be kind

Choose to reach out

Choose to make someone smile

Choose to be motivated

Choose to live on purpose

Choose to make a choice

Choose to be thankful

Choose to be authentic

Choose to be at peace

Choose to believe

Choose to have faith

Choose to love and be loved!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured x

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Don’t delay, don’t hesitate…

04 Sunday Oct 2015

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Don’t waste another moment.

Don’t miss an opportunity to show appreciation and love.

Don’t allow any negative interaction(s) to steal your peace and joy.

We lost a very special aunt earlier today. Our hearts are shattered and our minds are numb. In that moment when we received the news, it felt as though our collective world stood still.

The heartache was tangible and tears flowed freely like the Jordan. Whispers of: “Why? Why her? Why now? It’s not fair…” could be heard.

As someone who always has a Plan A and B, I found myself unable to move or even utter a word. Glued to my seat.

I find myself moving through different emotions.

Confused.

Angry.

Incredibly sad.

Losing an amazing person who played a significant part in your childhood is a bitter pill to swallow. The thought of not hearing that hearty laugh or seeing her Colgate smile is hard to digest.

It just seems unfair.

I’m thankful for the times we shared, the fond memories and advice she so eagerly dispensed. I know without a doubt she’s in Heaven and God has certainly welcomed her home with open arms.

For the rest of us, we need oceans of grace to keep going without her. One day at a time…

Thank you for taking the time to read.

P.S Love and appreciate those near and dear to you!

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Appreciate the little ones…

14 Tuesday Apr 2015

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Over the last few weeks I got to bond with precious Eli; and all I can say is that it’s been an experience second to none.

At 2 ½ he is a bundle of energy and has a mind of his own. Not to mention the pure joy he pours out on those around him.

My heart actually smiles just thinking about and typing this…

Eli personifies determination. If he wants to do something then nothing and no-one can stand in his way or change his mind. And that includes jumping on the trampoline at the crack of dawn.

I enjoy my time with him so much that on days when I miss him (like today) I can almost hear him imitate his nanny, who says “be good, Eli, be good”. Or, when he lays his tiny hand on his head and says “peace”.

There are a few things that I learnt from Eli:

Everyone is special: the care and admiration in his eyes is beyond words. That child-like innocence; you know that look that sees everyone as being special and an important part of their life. Yes. That look.

Be in the moment: whether it’s playing outside, drawing or eating a sweet, you can see that he is enjoying every second of that experience.

Be happy: in the time that I’ve known Eli, I can count the times he’s been grumpy. Now, if only I could wake up with a big, bright smile each morning.

Be fearless: adults can learn a thing or two from kids about being carefree. These little beings have no doubts, fears or self-imposed limitations.

Love unconditionally: the random hugs, “I love you G” or playful tricks of his – with no expectation of this being reciprocated are enough to warm any heart.

The only limitation is your imagination: his brain is like a sponge and from the thread of our conversations it’s not hard to see that he has a vivid imagination.

Children are indeed a priceless gift from God.
The love, warmth and pure joy that radiates through their existence is something that should be cherished.
I hope that from this day onwards you will stop to appreciate and give thanks for the little people in your life.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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