Tuesday, December 1, 2015

DMV Events December 4 - 6, 2015


Hey There!  I'm Back....

What have y'all been doin'?  I've been growing, learning and experiencing and it has all taken a toll on my ability to write the numerous blog posts that have been swirling around my brain.  However, with some major prompting from the Task Master who sits directly in front of me, I've decided to pick-up where I left off.  While I still believe the Task Master is the only one reading my posts, I'm going to do like I have a full audience!


There are some nice events occurring this weekend!

Check them out!

December 4 - 23, 2015
Alexandria's Holiday Market - Alexandria VA  NEW
Unique art and craft items for everyone on your shopping list will be sold.  In addition to live entertainment and traditional European food and sweets.

December 5, 2015
16th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights - Alexandria VA  NEW
"At sundown, Alexandria's harbor lights up as dozens of illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront, led by Alexandria's fireboat The Vigilant and Washington, DC's fireboat John Glenn."

December 5 & 6, 2015
Parcel Market 2015 - Washington DC NEW
"An engaging & urban outdoor holiday market featuring a 10,000 square-foot ice rink, an interactive art installation, a large-scale retail tent & food area showcasing a thoughtfully curated list of talented local designers, artists, workshops, food artisans, and restaurants/small businesses, with live and local musical performances."


December 6, 2015
Local with Love - Silver Spring MD NEW
"A Pop-Up Holiday Bazaar at Third Space Wellness.  Shop gorgeous, unique gifts from local women entrepreneur!  There will also be a Kids Activities, Chair Massages and Hot Chocolate.


Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

DMV Events for October 9 - 12, 2015

Bonjour Potiron! 
(French translation: Hello Pumpkins!)

In honor of Paris Fashion Week 2015, I decided to greet you in French.  I know this isn't a fashion blog but I think Paris is an amazing place!  Walking to the cafe for a delectable morning treats, being seated to face the streets for people watching while drink Cafe Au Lait or strolling the Champs Elysees exploring the boutiques and shops are all reasons why I love Paris!

I guess I had Paris and fashion on my mind because my first visit to Paris occurred as the season was changing to Fall.  So while daydreaming of that adventure, I spent most of my Saturday cleaning and purging my closet to prepare for a Fall that has made its presence known!




Here are this week's events:


(Note:  A number of last week's events were postponed or cancelled due to the effects of the weather system known as Hurricane Joaquin so you may see a few repeats.)

October 10:  20th Annual Art on the Avenue in Del Ray, Alexandria VA NEW DATE
A multi-cultural arts festival held in October celebrating our community's diversity through the arts in the Potomac West area in Alexandria, Virginia. Over 300 vendors and 40,000 visitors attend.  10am to 6pm FREE

October 10 - 11:  Taste of DC -- Washington DC

October 10:  Bash and Bling Expo & Show Washington DC
This event features Interactive Sessions showcasing a few of their top brand partners and the expo will feature the most recognized fashion and style brands with products and services in the Fashion and Style Lounge during the event.  As an expecting mom or new mom can enjoy a discounted admission tickets (savings of $5.00 off) by using the discount code: BLINGKISSES

October 10:  3rd Annual Montpelier Fall Festival, Laurel MD
Celebrate fall, paint pumpkins, create autumn-themed crafts, have your face painted, skate in the skate mobile and have load of family fun!  You'll go home with a bag full of souvenirs to remember this day of art!  All ages, Free, bring your own pumpkin and large brown paper bag to decorated and carry projects.

October 10:  Jewelry Making 101 @On the Purple Couch, Kensington MD
Zoe Isaac, instructor & an accomplished jewelry designer artist and interior decorator will be our guide for this class. This class will provide you with the basic wire wrapping techniques using 2,3,4 & 5 wires that will allow you to make some of the most beautiful jewelry your heart desires.  Students will go home with a bracelet, ring, or pendant!  Fee charged.

October 10:   Apothecary Open House, Alexandria VA
In recognition of October's designation as National Pharmacy Month, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will host a free open house on Saturday, October 10.  Come see the medicine of the past!  Open from 10am to 5pm and is FREE

October 10:  20th Annual Art Safari, Alexandria VA  
An Alexandria tradition, Art Safari returns for the 20th year with an afternoon of hands-on craft activities for kids and families.  at 12am to 4pm -- FREE

October Now - 11:  Alexandria celebrates American Craft Week, Alexandria VA
Home to many creative artists producing unique, hand-made decorative and functional objects every day, Alexandria is a top destination for American Craft Week. Step into shops and studios to meet the artists and try flower petal art, mosaic knitting, or fabric block printing. A sampling of activities: animal papier-mâché for kids at Ten Thousand Villages, card weaving workshop at The Art League, Midwestern Knits trunk show at fibre space, cloth doll making at Hooray for Books!, and more.  Free for most activities; check with individual shops for fees.

Now-October 25:  Uprising (a play) by Gabrielle Fulton
I don't recall if I've ever featured a play but I had the opportunity to meet the music director and one of the cast from this play.  I not only meet them, I heard Mr William Knowles and Ms Roz White perform at small event, sponsored by some influential people, that I may or may not be able to discuss on this blog.  In any event, they are phenomenal so I know the play will be nothing less!

Now-November 8:  Women Chefs:  Artists in the Kitchen, Strathmore, N. Bethesda MD
It’s a tasting menu for the eyes when 21 visual artists blend their talents with 22 women chefs—and the results will amuse more than your bouche! The artists create portraits, the chefs offer cooking demos (sold out), and the true creative artistry of the kitchen gets served on a silver platter.


Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming Events...

October 18:  Takoma Park Street Festival -- Takoma MD NEW DATE
The Takoma Park Street Festival takes place on a mile stretch of Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD to Carroll Street, NW in Takoma, DC with over 200 artisans, community groups, children’s activities, food vendors, music, and a variety of green companies.
 
October 24:  Chalk Paint 101 @On the Purple Couch, Kensington MD
Are you looking for a new “look” for those less than pretty pieces?? Try Chalk Paint®..no need to strip prime or sand prior to painting. Learn how to paint furniture using this awesome paint, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint…how to distress, how to use dark and light wax and much more.  5 techniques ( 2 color distress/rustic/modern finish/wash/craquleur), how to use clear and dark wax…a lil color mixing  and use Annie’s brushes will be taught. Once you’ve mastered the techniques you will be ready to tackle that project at home!  All supplies included. Drinks are on us (coffee /tea/water). Fee charged.

October 31:  Silent Tears No More Prayer Breakfast, Greenbelt MD NEW
10th Annual Prayer Breakfast in recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

October 31:  A Fall Feast for a Cause, Mount Rainer MD NEW
Carroll and Company presents "A Feast for LOVE Crabfeast & Fundraiser."  Proceeds will be donated to Sisters4Sisters Inc's DMV House of Love and the L.O.V.E. (Leave Out Violence Everyday) Project.  $75 per person.  You can also use the link to make a donation to the project, if you cannot attend the event.

November 5-8:  57th annual JLW Holiday Shops, Renaissance Hotel, Washington DC
Holiday Shops is more than just a unique holiday shopping experience; it is also one of the League's major fundraisers. Funds raised support the JLW’s ongoing efforts to improve the D.C. community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers and the more than two dozen grants awarded annually to local nonprofits.

November 18:  MODAGE Style NYC Resale Fashion Bus Tour NEW DATE
One roundtrip MODAGE Style Tour Bus ticket, all-day bargain vintage + resale shopping in New York, breakfast bites, snacks and cold beverages aboard the Style Bus, stylish giveaways and unique fashion challenges! We will have a quick coffee + lunch break in Brooklyn before heading to Manhattan to visit two MODAGE approved resale locations. *Admission price does not include your lunch.

December 6:  Annual Holiday Group Art Show, Montpelier Mansion, Laurel MD

December 12:  The Ugly Sweater Run, National Harbor MD NEW

Jusqu'à la prochaine fois, garder ingénieux!

(Translated:  Until Next Time, Keep it Resourceful!)

~The ResourceNista

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

DMV Events for the Week of October 1-4, 2015


Hello Pumpkins! 

I got a little caught up enjoying the move to Fall but was definitely awakened by this hot and muggy weather over the last few days!  The effects of Hurricane Joaquin are being felt and we are being told to expect some serious weather over the weekend.

photo taken by me

However, this past weekend, I attended a fabulous Bridal Shower that featured an Old Hollywood Glamour theme (lots of homage paid to Audrey Hepburn via pearls and perfect LBD's).  The guest of honor was in red which added the pop of color to the closing picture taken in the front driveway.  The event was held at the Marlboro Ridge Club which is a private upscale Upper Marlboro MD community club and I want to join!  Unfortunately, a great community room isn't enough for The ResourceNista to move so until then anyone having a small fete on those premises should is free to put her on the list--WINK!!

Here are your events:

October 2-11:  Alexandria celebrates American Craft Week, Alexandria VA NEW
Home to many creative artists producing unique, hand-made decorative and functional objects every day, Alexandria is a top destination for American Craft Week. Step into shops and studios to meet the artists and try flower petal art, mosaic knitting, or fabric block printing. A sampling of activities: animal papier-mâché for kids at Ten Thousand Villages, card weaving workshop at The Art League, Midwestern Knits trunk show at fibre space, cloth doll making at Hooray for Books!, and more.  Free for most activities; check with individual shops for fees.

October 3:  20th Annual Art on the Avenue in Del Ray, Alexandria VA NEW
A multi-cultural arts festival held in October celebrating our community's diversity through the arts in the Potomac West area in Alexandria, Virginia. Over 300 vendors and 40,000 visitors attend.  10am to 6pm FREE

October 4:  The 4.01K Race for Retirement by Prudential, RFK, Washington DC
This race for Retirement Awareness is a 4.01 kilometer (2.49 mile) fun run and festival to help take on America’s Retirement Challenge. There will be food, games and a free concert courtesy of Pandora. It’s free. It’s local (at RFK Stadium). And it’s shorter than a 5k (for all those who think a 5k is too long), and it truly promotes a good message.

October 4:  Takoma Park Street Festival -- Takoma MD
The Takoma Park Street Festival takes place on a mile stretch of Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD to Carroll Street, NW in Takoma, DC with over 200 artisans, community groups, children’s activities, food vendors, music, and a variety of green companies.

Now-October 25:  Uprising (a play) by Gabrielle Fulton
I don't recall if I've ever featured a play but I had the opportunity to meet the music director and one of the cast from this play.  I not only meet them, I heard Mr William Knowles and Ms Roz White perform at small event, sponsored by some influential people, that I may or may not be able to discuss on this blog.  In any event, they are phenomenal so I know the play will be nothing less!

Now-November 8:  Women Chefs:  Artists in the Kitchen, Strathmore, N. Bethesda MD
It’s a tasting menu for the eyes when 21 visual artists blend their talents with 22 women chefs—and the results will amuse more than your bouche! The artists create portraits, the chefs offer cooking demos (sold out), and the true creative artistry of the kitchen gets served on a silver platter.


Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming Events...
October 10:  Taste of DC -- Washington DC

October 10:  Bash and Bling Expo & Show Washington DC NEW
This event features Interactive Sessions showcasing a few of their top brand partners and the expo will feature the most recognized fashion and style brands with products and services in the Fashion and Style Lounge during the event.  As an expecting mom or new mom can enjoy a discounted admission tickets (savings of $5.00 off) by using the discount code: BLINGKISSES

October 10:  3rd Annual Montpelier Fall Festival, Laurel MD
Celebrate fall, paint pumpkins, create autumn-themed crafts, have your face painted, skate in the skate mobile and have load of family fun!  You'll go home with a bag full of souvenirs to remember this day of art!  All ages, Free, bring your own pumpkin and large brown paper bag to decorated and carry projects.

October 10:  Jewelry Making 101 @On the Purple Couch, Kensington MD NEW
Zoe Isaac, instructor & an accomplished jewelry designer artist and interior decorator will be our guide for this class. This class will provide you with the basic wire wrapping techniques using 2,3,4 & 5 wires that will allow you to make some of the most beautiful jewelry your heart desires.  Students will go home with a bracelet, ring, or pendant!  Fee charged.

October 10:   Apothecary Open House, Alexandria VA NEW
In recognition of October's designation as National Pharmacy Month, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will host a free open house on Saturday, October 10.  Come see the medicine of the past!  Open from 10am to 5pm and is FREE

October 10:  20th Annual Art Safari, Alexandria VA  NEW
An Alexandria tradition, Art Safari returns for the 20th year with an afternoon of hands-on craft activities for kids and families.  at 12am to 4pm -- FREE

October 24:  Chalk Paint 101 @On the Purple Couch, Kensington MD NEW
Are you looking for a new “look” for those less than pretty pieces?? Try Chalk Paint®..no need to strip prime or sand prior to painting. Learn how to paint furniture using this awesome paint, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint…how to distress, how to use dark and light wax and much more.  5 techniques ( 2 color distress/rustic/modern finish/wash/craquleur), how to use clear and dark wax…a lil color mixing  and use Annie’s brushes will be taught. Once you’ve mastered the techniques you will be ready to tackle that project at home!  All supplies included. Drinks are on us (coffee /tea/water). Fee charged.

November 5-8:  57th annual JLW Holiday Shops, Renaissance Hotel, Washington DC
Holiday Shops is more than just a unique holiday shopping experience; it is also one of the League's major fundraisers. Funds raised support the JLW’s ongoing efforts to improve the D.C. community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers and the more than two dozen grants awarded annually to local nonprofits.

December 6:  Annual Holiday Group Art Show, Montpelier Mansion, Laurel MD

Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista

Thursday, September 24, 2015

PUMPKIN-TOPIA

Hello Pumpkins!

In my new recurring series, "These are my confessions!"  This week's segment has me coming clean about my favorite time of the year and why.

I've always claimed  my favorite time of the year was Spring since I was born in the spring.  However, I haven't seen Spring in years due to this crazy east coast Winter to Summer weather plan.

So now...I'm officially announcing...
FALL IS MY FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR!

Why????  Because it is Pumpkin Season, Baby!!!!  I LOVE Pumpkin!  In the midst of all the sweet potato pie being baked in our home over the holiday seasons of my life, there would always be at least one pumpkin pie.  And while the rest of our extended family loved those sweet potato pies, my heart skipped a beat for the Pumpkin Pie.  I've always been a "special" eater so it should not have surprised my Mom.  However, I was dumbfounded when my mother decided she would only make sweet potato pies and I needed to learn to make the pumpkin pie for myself.  Humph!  I know I'm ancient (did I just make another confession???) but I'm her only child!

Determined to respond in true only child fashion, I dug my heels in and decided I would not learn to make that pie because I could find other ways to satisfy my love of pumpkin during this season.

Here's what I've discovered on my pumpkin treat quest:

Starbucks Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin Scone
photo taken from the Starbuck's website


A delightful little pumpkin treat topped with a sweet vanilla icing and pumpkin drizzle.  I'm not a Starbucks beverage person but I proudly place my order and happily confirm...that will be all through out pumpkin season.  Unfortunately, Starbucks decided to change their recipe so I'm on the fence about the new version.  We'll see!

Pepperidge Farm Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

photo taken from the Pepperidge Farm's website

This year, I've added Kellogg's Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts
photo taken from the Kellogg's website

Why did I have to find these?????  They are good and probably would taste even better toasted.  I just went through the first box so fast I never gave myself a chance test this theory.  Oh, well...guess I'll have to purchase box #2!


About three years ago when I almost stepped out of those buried heels and decided to learn to make that pie, I discovered Costco's Pumpkin Pie



Yep, 16 inches of pumpkin pie goodness that would carry me through the entire holiday season thanks to a good freezing technique.  Discovering this pie was a game changer but I think the Honey Baked people might be trying to dethrone Costco.  I received a coupon from them so we'll have to see.

My love is not only dedicated to store bought treats, there are several restaurants that have joined the bandwagon and celebrate pumpkin season with some delectable pumpkin dessert options.  Here's a couple being served at my favorite "To-Go" places in the DMV area:

Cheesecake Factory's Pumpkin Cheesecake and Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake
Ruby Tuesday's Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

Hope you enjoyed my confession and short essay on my pumpkin love.  Are you a pumpkin person or a Sweet Potato person?  Let me know.

Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista




Tuesday, September 22, 2015

DMV Events for the Week of September 24-27, 2015

Hello Pumpkins!

As promised today, the "DMV Events for the Week of..." has found its new home on Tuesday!

I am hoping to accomplish two goals from this move:  1.  I will write about the events I've attended over the weekend and 2. Those who want to attend some of the events posted will have the opportunity to put them on their schedule earlier in the week.
photo taken by me
On Friday, I strolled on over to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to run through the Exhibition Showcase of the ALC sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus.  It was like returning home because for many years I was a volunteer.  I never recall registering but was pleased to be reminder, registration to attend the sessions and expo is Free.  I quickly registered and was off to view the happenings.  Note:  there are numerous activities related to the ALC Weekend that require a charge.

So, what did I see in the expo area?  Federal Government agency's with lots of job announcements, A Glam Lounge for a little facial beat down, an Author's Pavilion to expand your mind, Health Care Screens to determine you current state of health and lots of vendors selling clothing and jewelry for men and women.  The conference is filled with informative and thought provoking sessions.  I hate that I could not attend any this year.  But I'll do better next year!  Please mark your calendar for next year and I'll meet you there!

What did you do this weekend???  Were you at any of the fabulous ALC events?  Let me know in the comments area.

On to this week's events:

September 19-27:  DC Fashion Week, Washington DC
In the midst of a city lock down due to the Papal visit, there will be stompin' going on in "The Yards Park" on the National Capitol Riverfront.  The opening night show (the 23rd) will feature Pop-Up Retail Shops, Special Guest Designer and live entertainment. Free Admission. Tickets available online.  Please visit the link for more information.

Now-October 25:  Uprising (a play) by Gabrielle Fulton
I don't recall if I've ever featured a play but I had the opportunity to meet the music director and one of the cast from this play.  I not only meet them, I heard Mr William Knowles and Ms Roz White perform at small event, sponsored by some influential people, that I may or may not be able to discuss on this blog.  In any event, they are phenomenal so I know the play will be nothing less!

Now-November 8:  Women Chefs:  Artists in the Kitchen, Strathmore, N. Bethesda MD
It’s a tasting menu for the eyes when 21 visual artists blend their talents with 22 women chefs—and the results will amuse more than your bouche! The artists create portraits, the chefs offer cooking demos (sold out), and the true creative artistry of the kitchen gets served on a silver platter.

September 26:  Barracks Row Fall Festival, Washington DC
At each Fall Festival our activities and booths blend urban diversity with the curiosities of small town fairs.  The event partners and participants include the United States Marine Corps, The Trapeze School New York, and the Military Hospitality Alliance (sponsors of the Military Chef's Cook Off) as well as a medley of memorable booths and acts. Also, for kids, last year's Petting Zoo will be back!

September 27:  Natutalista Hair Show, Silver Spring MD
Per the website:  "This expo teaches women of color how to care for their natural hair and live healthy lives while embracing the right to remain fabulous.”

September 27:  Rock Creek Park Day, Washington DC


Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming Events...

October 4:  The 4.01K Race for Retirement by Prudential, RFK, Washington DC
This race for Retirement Awareness is a 4.01 kilometer (2.49 mile) fun run and festival to help take on America’s Retirement Challenge. There will be food, games and a free concert courtesy of Pandora. It’s free. It’s local (at RFK Stadium). And it’s shorter than a 5k (for all those who think a 5k is too long), and it truly promotes a good message.

October 4:  Takoma Park Street Festival -- Takoma MD
The Takoma Park Street Festival takes place on a mile stretch of Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD to Carroll Street, NW in Takoma, DC with over 200 artisans, community groups, children’s activities, food vendors, music, and a variety of green companies.

October 10:  Taste of DC -- Washington DC

October 10:  3rd Annual Montpelier Fall Festival, Laurel MD
Celebrate fall, paint pumpkins, create autumn-themed crafts, have your face painted, skate in the skate mobile and have loadd of family fun!  You'll go home with a bag full of souvenirs to remember this day of art!  All ages, Free, bring your own pumpkin and large brown paper bag to decorated and carry projects.

November 5-8:   57th annual JLW Holiday Shops, Renaissance Hotel, Washington DC
Holiday Shops is more than just a unique holiday shopping experience; it is also one of the League's major fundraisers. Funds raised support the JLW’s ongoing efforts to improve the D.C. community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers and the more than two dozen grants awarded annually to local nonprofits.

December 6:  Annual Holiday Group Art Show, Montpelier Mansion, Laurel MD


Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista

Friday, September 18, 2015

DMV Events for September 17-20, 2015

Hey Pumpkins!

I'm back with the events that event seekers are looking for!  And we are approaching a major Festival Season!  You don't want to miss these events!

Enjoy!

September 16-21:  Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference Weekend -- DC

September 19:  H Street Festival
The entire H Street community invites you to attend the H Street Festival 2015, DC’s best neighborhood Festival.

September 19-27:  DC Fashion Week


Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming Events...
September 26:  Barracks Row Fall Festival, Washington DC
At each Fall Festival our activities and booths blend urban diversity with the curiosities of small town fairs.  The event partners and participants include the United States Marine Corps, The Trapeze School New York, and the Military Hospitality Alliance (sponsors of the Military Chef's Cook Off) as well as a medley of memorable booths and acts. Also, for kids, last year's Petting Zoo will be back!


September 27:  Natutalista Hair Show, Silver Spring MD
Per the website:  "This expo teaches women of color how to care for their natural hair and live healthy lives while embracing the right to remain fabulous.”

September 27:  Rock Creek Park Day, Washington DC

October 4:  The 4.01K Race for Retirement by Prudential, RFK, Washington DC
This race for Retirement Awareness is a 4.01 kilometer (2.49 mile) fun run and festival to help take on America’s Retirement Challenge. There will be food, games and a free concert courtesy of Pandora. It’s free. It’s local (at RFK Stadium). And it’s shorter than a 5k (for all those who think a 5k is too long), and it truly promotes a good message.

October 4:  Takoma Park Street Festival -- Takoma MD
The Takoma Park Street Festival takes place on a mile stretch of Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD to Carroll Street, NW in Takoma, DC with over 200 artisans, community groups, children’s activities, food vendors, music, and a variety of green companies.

October 10:  Taste of DC -- Washington DC

Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Be Gentle with Yourself!

Hey Pumpkins (this will make sense next Thursday),

First up...
Blog Announcement
Starting Tuesday, September 22nd, the weekly "DMV Events" posts will occur on Tuesdays.  I realized it is better to post events for the weekend earlier in the week to give people a chance to plan to attend.

On to today's post...


I am not sure that I have been able to articulate in my recent posts that I am having a moment.  By a moment, I mean I have experienced some challenges that have left me a little bruised but stronger.  I am healing, I am stronger and I am more in control of my emotions than I've ever felt in my entire life.

I'm stronger because I was prepared and I was not alone.  I chose not to be angry.  I chose to manage the situations, as they occurred.  I chose not to lose my cool and to step away before my words created additional unnecessary situations.  I chose me!  I chose to do what would honor the God whose Spirit lives in me.  And I chose to forgive....myself.

There have been so many times in my life when circumstances and situations have arisen and I blamed myself because I ...[you fill in the rest].  I was a victim held captive in a prison that I built and governed.  I would not allow myself to forgive myself because I...[you fill in the rest].  Which means I definitely could not forgive anyone else.  Relationships were damaged and then it would really be my fault because...I...I think you get it.

However, at some point, I allowed the voice of God to be louder and clearer than the enslaving words that filled my head.  I could feel His voice saying, I can't help you until you let it go and forgive yourself.  I realize I was treating myself bad and this opened the door for others to mistreat me or manipulate situations in their favor.  When I allowed God's Spirit to remind me who I am, how I was created, why I was created and for whose purpose I was created, I came alive again and my spirit was flooded with peace.  I had long ago accepted Jesus Christ, as my Lord and Savior, but this felt like another level of my born again experience.   A level where I could not take the the unforgiveness I had been holding onto.

And then the test began, I had unnecessary situations at work and I had unbelievable situations with friends.  But this time, I was different.  I quickly forgave myself and forgave them because I did not want to lose what I had gained--it was too sweet.  While I still had to deal with the residue from the situations which caused bruises, I am stronger and I enjoying my new level--peace!

If you are experiencing a test, rest in the fact that you are going to the next level!  Ask God through prayer to help you recall what was spoken to you during your time of preparation.  Then walk in it!  You may get a little bruised but you will be stronger once you reach that next level!

Until Next Time,

Keep it Resourceful!

~The ResourceNista