Genesis 3

I'm freezing! I came home from work today and the house was a little stuffy. So, I turned on the air conditioner just to get some circulation going. Well, I left the house without turning off the air. I returned to a really cold house. So, now I'm bundled under layers of cover longing for the stuffy conditions of this afternoon.

Earlier, I had a lunch date with my "Aunt" Jackie (my mentor); and we had a really good talk about life and the intricacies of female relationships. To write about that would take up all the space on my hard drive. I'll say it was a productive talk and I came away feeling like I had grown closer to the woman that I want to be.

Tonight we had prayer at church. I thoroughly enjoyed it, because after talking to God I feel like I'm going to be okay. Like I'm doing okay in this Christian walk. Too often, we can feel like we don't measure up. Or when we mess up that God is going to banish us to hell rather than forgiving us.  It's strange how we believe some of what the bible says and not all of it. The entire word of God is TRUE. Believe it!

Usually when I pray, I worship first. Then I ask for forgiveness. Then I pray for myself and others (sometimes asking for intangibles: peace, joy; and sometimes for the tangibles: a husband...LOL). Finally, I just listen. Tonight when I listened, I heard God say "why are you hiding?" "where are you?" I sat and I listened to him say he wanted more time with me. Unfortunately, because I'm always on the go, so are my prayers. It's easy to get caught up in getting things done, that we forget to take time out of our day to have a conversation with him. As he did with Adam in Genesis 3, God is looking for me and asking me what is keeping us apart. That's the thing about stillness, you can hear God so clearly. Be still. Maybe he's asking you the same thing. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Busy Bee

The last 5 days have been hectic but great. Because I have so many vacation days left, I've been taking off Mondays and Fridays for the last two weeks. I can really get used to this! Yesterday, I wore the pleated skirt that I posted a few days ago. See pic below. I received compliments. The colors were bright and fabulous and I love that the colors from the 1980s are back!

I thought I would be able to sleep in today, but my brother had other plans. It was raining outside (we know how I feel about that). I was sound asleep, which is rare being the light sleeper that I am.  And here comes my brother, it never seems to fail... He always finds something for me to do when all I want to do is nothing! lol. So, I drove to north Jersey to pick him up from his car dealership. My intention was to go to NYC today, but when I got back home I went to bed. I didn't get up until 4:30pm. And that was only to go to the mall with my girl Nicole and her sister, Natalie. I was determined not to buy anything. I'm saving for my trip next month. I just know I'm going to find some great fashions.

Now I'm back home and all I feel like doing is reading and going to bed. After all, tomorrow is a work day. I'm looking forward to tomorrow night because we have corporate prayer. I'm cognizant of God most times, but I am working on doing better in my prayer life. Sometimes, it's not about the dialogue, but listening to him. So, here's to listening and obeying. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

So Full

This was the perfect Saturday. I've been having a lot of those lately. There is really so much to share but its 11:33pm and I'm winding down from a long but glorious day. I will be sure to share all tomorrow. I am so full of joy and thankfulness for good friends and fellowship. To all my peeps that came to the Great Lawn at Central Park to celebrate the life and legacy of Annie George, I salute you and I thank God for your presence in my life. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Hot Stuff

It was 90 degrees at 10am this morning. I expect that kind of heat in Tennessee, but not New Jersey. The first day of summer came in with a heat wave; and nearly crippled the HVAC system in my office building.  Because of the stifling heat, I decided to forgo going out to lunch. So naturally, I was starving by the end of the work day. This evening, I met up with my girls, Nicole and Kenya, to go to the mall. The purpose was to assist Nicole with finding a blouse for her bridal shower. She's getting married Labor Day weekend! However, I was intent on getting Chick-Fil-A as soon as possible. Love that place!

Unfortunately, MISSION Find-Nic-a-Blouse was a bust, but she has a little over a week to find something stunning. Of course, when I go to the mall with intentions to help someone else, I find deals for myself. All I have to say is Forever 21. One of my favorite stores. Typically, I don't go for pleats, but this cute color block accordion skirt beckoned me to the point that I had to buy it. I don't usually share my finds prior to wearing them, but I'll make this exception cause it's so darn fabulous. The pic is posted below, but it looks so much better on me:) I'll share my rendition at a later time.

The last 4 years, I've really let my fashion sense fall by the wayside. Long nights in the library instead of the gym didn't help my girlish figure either. So, I'm buying pieces here and there to spruce up the wardrobe and get back in the style game. Look out world, here I come:)
Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Happy Graduation

It's official. My mentee, Megan, graduated from high school today. I am so proud of her and look forward to her future accomplishments. She'll be starting college in the fall; and will experience a certain level of independence that is foreign to most high school graduates. Sitting through her ceremony, I remembered my high school graduation. I remember my excitement as well as my fear about the future. Funny thing is I don't fear the future anymore. I just prepare for it; and pray that God will keep me come what may. As I looked through the program, my mind mulled over the word graduate. Although it is a noun and an adjective, I thought about the verb. One definition for graduate is to change gradually (over time). We must not only do this in the natural, but in the spiritual.

I have academic degrees signifying that I've moved from one level of learning to the next; however, what is there to signify that I (or you) have moved from one level of glory to the next in God? Last Saturday, at the Sweet Tea Party, we discussed what qualities constitutes maturity. There were some good answers and then Sister Venetta said "it's in the word...the fruit of the Spirit constitute maturity [along with the other qualities mentioned]". The fruit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22).  It's no coincidence that love is mentioned first. God is love. Once you have God -and a made up mind to serve him- then the other fruit will become evident in your life.  Furthermore, 1st Corinthians 13:11-12 speaks of becoming mature in the faith as does 1 Corinthians 14:20.

Many say that life is a journey. In order to reach your destination you must move. Same thing with our spiritual lives. It's a journey, and we must keep moving from one level to the next... gradually becoming better for the glory of God. At the end of our journey aren't we all looking to be conferred with a crown of glory and honor? Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Sister Friends

Wow! This has been quite a weekend. I don't know where to begin. As you know I went to a friend's 35th birthday party Friday night. The pics are below as promised. On Saturday, I attended a Sweet Tea Party with the ladies from the Within Ministry. We had such a great time. I enjoy meeting new people and sharing godly wisdom about life, love and relationships.  And that's what we did Saturday.

Today was so edifying to me.  Two of my friends who no longer live in New Jersey were in town. I was elated to have everyone together. Of course, after service we went to lunch. As my friend, DeaLana likes to say, it was 'so easy, breezy, beautiful'. No drama, just good times. After lunch, we said our goodbyes to Shauna, who lives abroad.

These times are so far and few between, but when we get together it's like no time has passed. I know no matter how old we are or where we go, we will be sisters for life. I can count on them to tell me the truth (even when it hurts); to make me laugh when all I want to do is cry; to give me wisdom when I need it...There is no amount of money that can buy you true friends. They are priceless.

So, this entry is just a shout out to my sister-friends past and present. I am thankful for the women who have helped shape me into the woman I am today.
Pow3rful in Him, Chris

P.S. So, this is my great TJ Maxx find. The dress is Gabby Skye. The shoes are Marc Fisher from Macy's. The clutch is NY & Co.

God is in the Details

Detail oriented. It's on almost every resume I've ever read, but how often is it really true? It's listed as a skill on my resume. And whether I want to or not, I must admit I ignore the details all the time. Case in point, a friend of mine will be celebrating her 35th birthday tomorrow. I received the party invitation weeks ago. I replied by the appointed date. I get a point for that! BUT somehow I missed the required attire: ALL WHITE. My brother patiently pointed it out to me last Sunday. I was in panic mode, because I rarely buy white clothes. As I told Chelle just this morning #1) it's so hard for me to keep it clean and #2) the color makes me look huge (right in the gut). Therefore, I don't have any white clothes besides a couple of casuals tops. So, I spent 3 hours at the mall last night to no avail.

I went to the North Brunswick Shoppes (shoppies, as my coworker calls it) on my lunch break; and to my utter dismay I found nothing appropriate...not even from White House|Black Market. I mean, isn't this what you specialize in?! Anyway, I'm now heading towards Distressed-ville. Yes, that's an actual place--in my mind. When I get like this, it would do good to remember the scripture 'be anxious for nothing' or even better 'do not worry'. NOW I remember them. Determined to get my peace of mind back, I browsed stores online for a good part of the afternoon (it was a slow day). After work, I had to make a quick decision TJ Maxx or Ross. One or the other was bound to have something white, right?

I decided on TJ Maxx. I could hear the lady from the commercial saying 'be a maxxinista'. I'm telling you the power of TV. Guess what? I found a ca-uuuuute (as Chelle said) dress. I will be sure to share pics from tomorrow night's party of the ensemble I put together. AND the dress was a steal! You gotta love designer fashion at low prices...hehehe.

 Moral of the story: God is in the details, so pay attention! It'll save you a trip to Distressed-ville. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Short and sweet

Blogging while texting. Watching 2 TV programs. Scouring the web for clothing ideas for next month's photo shoot. Just another Tuesday night in my life. It's raining, but the constant drizzle is energizing my efforts rather than putting me to sleep. Hey, there's a first for everything.

Today, Stephie and I met for lunch to discuss the photo shoot. We decided to go for an urban environment instead of a park or open field. Now for the clothes. I'm finding some great photos of clothing concepts. I can see the clothes, the hair, the makeup...so excited about this project!

I have so much to do between now and then. So, tonight's blog is short and sweet. I hope you enjoyed your day. I pray you will enjoy the rest of your night! Pow3rful in Him, Chris

The Big Apple

When I was younger, I had this dream of moving to New York City. My desire to do so was mostly due to the way the city was portrayed in movies. Somehow the hustle and bustle seemed romantic. Remember "When Harry Met Sally"? Imagine my dismay when I finally arrived in the big city and experienced not only the hustle and bustle, but the stench of standing water, speeding pedestrians, wreckless taxi drivers, etc. Millions of people love it, but it just is not for me. New York City draws so many to the east coast; but I have to push myself to go.

So, today I was in the city to do makeup for a corporate imaging event. The train ride was pleasant. However, as soon as I stepped out of Penn Station, I realized the black shirt I'd donned was a huge misstep. It was high noon and HOT.  I had about 15 blocks to hike in order to get to my destination. You may be wondering why I didn't take the subway. My answer is I never take the subway if I can walk, especially when it's hot. The oppressive heat is enough to make you pass out. Needless to say when I arrived I was hot and a little sweaty; but the building's air conditioning quickly cooled me.

Interestingly enough, I had a great time in New York today. I met some really nice models (accountants in real life). Their makeup applications went quickly and smoothly. I handed out some business cards. More opportunities are coming my way because of this. It was a day well spent. I'm not going to lie, I dreaded making the trip over even though I was excited about the event. Yes, it was hot. Yes, my right arm is a little bit sore after pulling my rolling suit case. BUT the discomfort was worth it. Like it or not, sometimes we have to go to those uncomfortable places in order to get our blessings. That'll preach! Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Home Again

Saturday morning. I woke up early knowing I had a full day ahead. By 8:30am I was on the road and headed to south Jersey. I took the long way, which I like to do when time permits. My sister friend, Chelle, and her husband just bought a house. A few friends and family got together to assist them with the move. Now they live in a very quiet neighborhood. Well into the afternoon, and there was hardly any noise from the surrounding homes. We felt it was our duty to liven it up a little! So, we opened the windows, put on some music and got down to work.

I really enjoy being in the presence of my friends. The music, the laughter, the conversation of yesterday strengthened the bonds our sisterhood. We just click. I think it helps that I am learning to be a better friend. I am learning to trust wholeheartedly. So, that my friends know they can trust me as well. My new prayer is that the Lord will show me how to handle the hearts of others. I've been careless in the past as some have been with me. BUT I can't dwell on those relationships. FORGIVE is my constant mantra. I am working from where I am now and doing better daily.

So, being away for years, Chelle is now back in her hometown and reestablishing her roots in the community that reared her.  On my way home yesterday, I thought about going home again.  In 2004, my dad told me, "no matter what,  know that you can always come home". The next year, I moved back to Tennessee to recuperate from the hard knocks of life. Then a year later, I returned to Jersey stronger, better and wiser.

I am thankful to God for the difficult circumstances which sent me home, because my dad passed away the following year. Many times we don't understand why negative things are happening in our lives, but God has a plan. I was able to spend face time with my dad instead of long distance phone calls. So, don't knock the process. Whether you decide to move home or if circumstances decide it for you, don't regret it. Make the most of it! Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Hide and Seek

I really enjoyed my life today. When I woke up I was so looking forward to my friend Yodit's bible study. She sent an invite via Facebook to discuss Proverbs 31 and I was quick to reply. I love love love the book of Proverbs, especially chapter 31.  So, I left Financial Peace class early to make the event. It was so uplifting to be around women who are striving to live holy and be unique in this crazy mixed up world. One of the best points for me was that I must remain hidden in God. In time, he will expose me, but only when the time is appropriate. 
I have never been the "look at me" type of woman. More often than not, I tried to blend in because I was insecure about my hair, my skin, my this, my that. You name it.  BUT as I came to know God, I believed his word. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are his works and that my so knows very well. The Proverbs 31 woman knows her worth, her value. She doesn't flaunt it. She exudes it. She is prepared for life so she can look forward to tomorrow without worry.

At 33 years old, it is sometimes difficult to remember that God has a plan that I cannot begin to fathom. I desire to be married. I desire to have children. However, I desire for it to be right and in the will of God. Proverbs says, "the Lord maketh rich and he addeth no sorrow". So, though I want to begin a family, I will wait (patiently) for God. While I'm waiting, I have a life to live. I have a purpose to fulfill. And while I'm hiding in him, I am seeking his kingdom. I am seeking his righteousness. I am working on becoming a Proverbs 31 woman. In the meantime, I will take Yodit's advice and appreciate the process. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Love Thy Neighbor

Today marks the first week of my blog. It feels good to reach this small milestone because it takes discipline to sit down every night and share my thoughts with you. And I did it, despite those nights when I just wanted to go to bed. Yay me!

So, an interesting thing happened when I arrived home from work today. I pulled into my drive way, got out of my car; and as I turned to close my door, my neighbor was getting out of his car and he spoke to me and I returned his greeting. Now you may be waiting for the rest of the story, but that's it. See, in February 2011 there was a snow storm. My brother had parked his car on the street. When I woke up, I looked out the window to see how much snow had fallen. There was a mound of snow behind my car (picture posted below). I ran outside to see if there was any possible way I could clear the snow so I could go to work. Out of nowhere my neighbor proceeds to yell at me about parking on the street. Supposedly, because we were so "inconsiderate" the snow plow driver couldn't clean the street properly. I was taken aback because #1) it wasn't my car and #2) I didn't appreciate the way he was talking to me. I rarely remain calm when someone is screaming at me. So, my temper was ignited and I didn't stop talking until I felt I had put him and his wife in their place. I know. I completely lost my cool...and my witness, which is what I really regretted.  Fast forward one year and 4 months later and here we are. Saying hello and acknowledging each other's presence again.

Unforgiveness is a prison. Unforgiveness is weighty.  Unforgiveness will make you think you're right when you're wrong.  It keeps you bound to things that God would like to release you from: hurt, pain, anger and people! It will fester in you and ruin all of your relationships if you don't let it go. That's right. We have a choice to hold on or let go. Today, I chose to let go, not only the unforgiveness against my neighbor, but the "justified" anger and self-righteousness. Yes, he was wrong but so was I. Essentially, I am responsible for my response. Unlike last year, today I chose to respond in love. That's the power of a transformed mind. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

I Wanna Be Made Ova

My bedroom is in need of a makeover. The pale gray blue walls remind me of a gathering storm. I have too much furniture in the space; and it's not functional. I've been wanting to redecorate it for some time, but I haven't gotten around to it. Basically, I watch TV and I go to sleep in this room. I have a desk covered with magazines and books. There is absolutely no space for my laptop or makeup supplies. Truthfully, a trip to IKEA or The Container Store could solve some of the issues. I have so many books and makeup products a great shelving system would be nice. Unfortunately, I hoard paper. Receipts, bills, and other random papers. It's really ridiculous. I would post a pic, but I can't find my camera at the moment. Saved by my tendency to misplace things.

Anyway, I'm watching the OKC/Spurs game and I'm annoyed by the size of my TV, which has rarely bothered me prior to tonight. It's a small color TV that my mom bought me from a pawn shop 7 years ago. Yes, it still works, but the score is so tiny I couldn't tell who was winning the game until the crowd went crazy! AND, I'm wearing my glasses. LOL

The interesting thing about my room is that it often reflects what's going on in my spiritual life. When it's cluttered and disorganized, I am usually feeling lost or overwhelmed. When it's clean and tidy, I am usually feeling content and at peace. For times like tonight -- when all I want to do is paint the walls and throw out all my furniture and begin again -- I feel like renovating my life. Removing the unnecessary things and retaining only what makes sense. De-cluttering my room is equivalent to releasing emotional baggage. What's the tell for you that your spiritual life is off track? How do you rectify the issue? As for me, the makeover starts now. Pow3rful in Him,Chris

"All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes"

A few weeks ago, I did something I have been dreaming of doing for years. I submitted my application for a passport. Yes, I made it into my 30s never having left the United States. Rare in these days, I know. But then, I bought my first cell phone at age 25. What can I say? I'm a late bloomer. Anyway, I booked a trip abroad and I'm so excited!  Today, I was daydreaming about sitting at a cafe with a beignet and a cup of cafe au lait (and a raspberry beret...I couldn't resist). I may even be inspired to begin that novel I've been thinking about lately. Maybe while sitting in the park (deep into my creative flow), a tall handsome man (let's call him "Jean-Claude") will bump into me while playing frisbee with his friends. LOL. Wow! Really, Chris? Well, is there anything too hard for God?

I digress. I'm looking forward to this experience because travel broadens perspective. It births new thoughts while honing our current belief systems. To immerse yourself in another culture, even for a week, opens the mind to possibilities that it would have never imagined before hand. I remember when I first moved to New Jersey. It seemed like a different world, not a different state. It was a total culture shock. But I've grown so much since then. I don't know where I would be in life if I had remained in Tennessee, if I hadn't taken the road less traveled. Only God knows...

I titled this blog after one of Maya Angelou's autobiographies. I read it when I was in high school and it stuck with me. Although I'm not visiting the Motherland this time around, I am still galvanized to learn as much as I can about a different culture and people. Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he gave the disciples the great commission. He commanded them 'to go and make disciples of all the nations...' (NJKV). I joke about meeting Mr. Right on this trip, but I would seriously love to introduce someone to the lover of our souls. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Not So Manic Monday

I knew from the moment I opened my eyes this would be an unproductive day. My room was darker than usual for a spring morning. The rainfall was like a pendulum, swinging from one extreme to the next. By the end of Kelly Ripa and Bryant Gumbel's dialogue, I shuffled to the bathroom to begin my daily routine. Shortly after, I dashed out into the pouring rain to make my short commute to work. For the first time all year, I had very few pressing issues to attend to, which left me wondering why I hadn't taken a vacation day. There is plenty at home for me to do. I met with a couple of students and answered emails (those never cease). The clouds lifted, but I didn't even go out to lunch. BORING, right?! It's something about rainy days that just suck all the energy out of me. I tend to just sit still and allow my thoughts to wander. The great thing about today is I managed to get some quiet time in with God.

Honestly, I'm at a crossroads. I have been since I finished school. So,  I had a little talk with Jesus and told him all about it. The problem with being good at a number of things is that good can look like great if you're not careful. As my friends would say "that'll preach". I did good in school, so should I pursue a career in the field or consider my degree as a goal accomplished? I'm good at makeup, so should I make it more than a side gig? The frustrating part is I've been asking these questions since last August and I'm still not certain. Proverbs 3:5-6 states
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding; 
 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths." (NKJV)

I'm working on the 'perfecting my patience' portion of Christianity. Pray for me! It seems like I'm idling on the shoulder of an open road just waiting to go in the direction that God tells me. Maybe idle isn't the right word. I'm doing my makeup thing and reading books on the labor movement and WRITING. I'm constantly doing, doing, doing.  So, I'm going to continue working in all my trades because it has to be preparing me for the next phase of my life. As Bishop Searight always says 'preparation is the key to life and consistency is the key to success'. Maybe this wasn't such an unproductive day. Maybe there's something to being still before taking action. Hmmm...interesting. Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Sam Cooke

I was born by the river... and just like that river I've been running ever since...but I know a change is gonna come. For the past 5 years I've been running. Sometimes chasing after God and other times, running away from his plan for my life. Often, it seems as if I'm running in circles, repeating the same mistakes and learning the hard way. As you know, some lessons come easier than others. Interestingly, the running has increased my stamina. I'm not easily winded or quick to move to the side lines when life throws a curve ball. Instead I stand in the box prepared to swing and pray for the best.

Since making the commitment to blog daily, I feel a change. It's a subtle shift in my thinking, in my habits, in my conversation. Most importantly, I feel content. This morning, Bishop Searight taught from 1 Timothy 6:6, which says "Now godliness with contentment is great gain"(NKJV). The Amplified Bible described contentment as having an 'inward sufficiency'. Paul wrote that he learned to be content in all things (paraphrasing). With each stroke of the key, there is a strengthening of my inner resolve to be better, do better, love better. To know that I can change my life by changing my mind is powerful. To know that my happiness is determined by my thinking is powerful. Indeed, knowledge is power. So, I am moved to ask: what have you done lately that brings you to the place of contentment? 

As I peruse my notes from this morning's service, I think it imperative to share this thought. You must know what to keep and what to throw away when you are transitioning from one level to the next. Some habits will need to be broken. Some friendships placed on pause, if not ended. Some confessions must cease. There are difficult, even drastic, moves that will have to be made so you can live your best life. I believe my latter years will be better than my former years. It is because I am renewing my mind and my daily confessions. Furthermore, I'm able to tell the truth to myself about myself (yeah, I hurt my own feelings). 

Ole Sam had it right, for better or worse, change is gonna come. Are you ready? Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Slice of Heaven

I woke up this morning with a list of things to do, places to go and people to see. I ended up doing two things: prom makeup and scouting sites for my next photoshoot. One word for this day is PERFECT. After getting a fresh haircut, I met up with my girl Stephie (budding photog) and off we went to scour the land known as Jersey. We went from town to town visiting parks and farmland with a little stop at Chick-fil-A for lunch;) I completely lost track of time. I was totally engulfed in the creative planning process-- coming up with concepts, possible models, makeup/hairstyles. I was in heaven. To continue my ride on cloud nine, I had an appointment to do makeup for a 'prom queen'. Her dress was phenomenal! The makeup was only an accessory- as it should be. This was her second prom in 2 weeks (picture posted below). I love repeat clients:) I even received a text from her mom tonight thanking me for doing a beautiful job. Of course, I am happy because they are happy.

After the gig, I met up with Stephie again. Off we went. It's nothing like getting lost on purpose...lol. We were so far off the proverbial beaten path. At one point, I seriously thought I was in rural Tennessee headed to my grandma's house. Well, except for the grand houses with 4 car garages. Yes, roaming from Allentown to Clarksburg to Imlaystown to Freehold and finally home is my idea of a perfect way to end the day. It's the simple things, you know. Anyway, thanks for sharing my day. I hope yours was just as fulfilling and that you are living your life with purpose and passion. If not, what are you waiting for? Pow3rful in Him, Chris

Day 152

June 1st. My calendar says I have much to do before I sleep. And I managed to do it all with ease. It's 11:40pm and I am determined to get this blog entry done. I'm on a mission, people!
First, I called my Aunt Lou to wish her a happy 77th birthday. She's my eldest aunt. I have so many great childhood memories of her. The most vivid one is when she taught me how to make Sanka instant coffee. I was a barista by the tender age of 7! I'm laughing as I remember standing in front of the microwave waiting for the timer to sound. Aunt Lou is from the ole skool. She believes in putting kids to work. This is one of the reasons I don't know how to sit still now. Always ready for the next thing. So, after work I went to my little sister's (mentee) house to do her makeup for senior prom. We were paired together through the youth ministry at our church. She was 15 years old. Now, she's 17. Again, I'm caught standing flat footed as time keeps moving. I always say 'no one can make you feel old like kids'. They grow up so fast! She reminds me so much of myself when I was younger except she is much more vocal and maybe a little more dramatic...lol. Mostly, she's such a diva just like her big sister. I'm posting a pic of her below. After making her over and doing a mini photo shoot, I was off again. Next on the agenda was getting to Plainfield High School for the school production of Flyin' West by Pearl Cleage. The students did an excellent job; and they only had 3 weeks to rehearse! That's what you can do when you put your mind to it. Now I'm home watching Night Line with Cynthia McFadden and holding on just long enough to type out my day. After all the busyness, I can now lay down to sleep and know that I contributed to someone's happiness. And that's a wonderful thing. Pow3rful in Him, Chris